Marina
In a spectacle of offensive bursts, Emporia State women’s soccer roared back from a 2–2 halftime tie to defeat Fort Hays State Tigers, 5–2, at the ESU Pitch.
The Hornets struck with three second-half goals, dominating the match’s final stages and stamping their authority in MIAA conference play.
First Half Drama & Swings
- Megan Kephart opened scoring in the 5th minute, converting an assist from Ella Favot to give the Hornets a quick lead.
- The Tigers answered in the 40th minute via Sydney Cotter, leveling the score 1–1.
- Before halftime, a frenzy ensued: Hailey Gancarz put ESU ahead at 44:09, only for Cotter to strike again 12 seconds later and tie the match 2–2 heading into the break.
Second Half: Hornets Take Flight
- Just three minutes into the second half, Avery Zimmerman scored to tilt momentum in Emporia’s favor.
- The Hornets held that 3–2 lead through much of the half.
- In the 79th minute, freshman Ella Favot netted her fourth consecutive game with a goal, extending the lead to 4–2.
- Finally, Sammy Quiroz sealed the win in the 82nd minute, notching her first career goal and making it 5–2.
Match & Team Stats Overview
| Category | Emporia State (Hornets) | Fort Hays State (Tigers) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Goals | 5 | 2 |
| Shots | 14 | 9 |
| Shots on Goal | 11 | 6 |
| Saves | 4 | 6 |
| Corners | 9 | 5 |
| Fouls | 9 | 7 |
Additional Notes:
- Emporia State’s record improved to 6–3–0 overall, 3–0–0 in MIAA play.
- Fort Hays State fell to 2–6–1 overall, 0–3–1 in MIAA.
- Attendance was 325 fans at the ESU Pitch.
- Ella Favot’s goal in the 79th made it a four-match streak with a goal for the freshman.
- Kephart, Gancarz, Zimmerman each scored their second goal of the season, while Quiroz earned her first.
- This marked the first five-goal match by the Hornets since September 22, 2023.
- Emporia’s 3–0 start in MIAA play is their first three-match unbeaten conference run since 2022, and first 3–0 start since 2021.
What This Victory Signifies
This match exemplified resilience, depth, and a strong attack bench. After being pegged back twice before halftime, the Hornets did not relent.
Their ability to respond immediately after the break showed mental toughness, and contributions from multiple players underscore a balanced squad.
The scoring spread across veteran and first-year players also signals growth and promise moving forward in the season.
What’s Next for the Hornets
Emporia State now heads on the road to face Pittsburg State (kickoff Friday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m.) and then Missouri Southern. The Hornets will aim to maintain momentum and defend their perfect start to MIAA conference play.
“Three Second-Half Goals Lift Hornets Over Tigers in Comeback Victory” captures a thrilling turn in Emporia State’s season.
After a volatile first half and multiple lead changes, the Hornets asserted dominance in the second half, showcasing depth, composure, and clutch scoring.
Their 5–2 triumph cements a strong start in MIAA play, boosts team confidence, and makes a bold statement about their ambitions this season.