Penn State women’s soccer (6-4-0) played a challenging match against Ohio State (7-4-0) Sunday afternoon at Jeffrey Field, but ultimately fell to the Buckeyes 1-0.

Both Penn State and Ohio State went scoreless in first half, even with fast-paced play and aggressive rushes to the goal from both teams. Ohio State’s goal came off a free kick in the second half.

The Nittany Lions attempted multiple shots from Ally Schlegel and Jilly Shimkin, but were not able to find an equalizer.

How It Happened

Penn State started off pushing hard offensively on Ohio State. Keeper Bailey Kolinski tripped up and fell in the second minute, allowing Ally Schlegel to slide past and sink the ball. The goal was ultimately not counted due to Schlegel being offsides, but the early start on the ball set the pace of play for the Nittany Lions.

Schlegel kept up with even more shots throughout the first half, but Kolinski and Ohio State’s defense held its ground and denied Penn State a goal.

In the 49th minute, Sam Coffey and Kate Wiesner had two great shots from Ohio State’s box but were unable to net either of them for the goal. Kolinski was a tough match for Penn State’s offense and had multiple great saves.

In the 65th minute, Ohio State’s Izzy Rodriguez took a free kick and was able to trick goalie Kat Asman, landing it high left in Penn State’s goal. The Buckeyes took the 1-0 lead.

Kerry Abello had a great run in the 81st minute, sweeping the ball down the sidelines, breaking Buckeye ankles, and crossing to Jilly Shimkin in the middle. Shimkin had a beautiful shot that was just barely too high, leaving Penn State scoreless.

Schlegel rushed the goal in the 83rd minute, beating all of Ohio State’s defense and keeper, but was called offsides yet again, denying Penn State the equalizer. The Nittany Lions couldn’t get much else going the rest of the way, and fell 1-0.

Player Of The Match

Ally Schlegel, Striker

Schlegel led in shots throughout the match and proved to be a challenge for Ohio State’s backline. The striker made sure to keep pressure on the Buckeyes’ defense while placing herself in a position for crosses coming from the wings.

Schlegel’s aggressive play and eagerness to press were key in the Nittany Lions attack, especially as Penn State looked for an equalizer after the Buckeyes’ goal.

What’s Next?

The Nittany Lions will travel to Madison Thursday, September 30 for their match against Wisconsin. Kickoff will be at 8 p.m. and the game will be streamed on BTN.