Marina
The Emporia State Women’s Soccer team delivered a powerful statement this past weekend, rebounding from a tough road trip to sweep their home opening weekend.
After opening the season with two narrow one-goal losses, the Hornets returned to action at home and secured back-to-back 3-1 victories against U-Mary and Northern State, evening their season record to 2-2.
The weekend marked a turning point for the squad, showcasing both their attacking firepower and defensive resilience.
Weekend Results Overview
The Hornets’ offensive performance showed dramatic improvement, outshooting their opponents 32-16 across both matches. Graduate student Peyton Pipes scored once in each game, while sophomore Meghan Kephart notched two crucial assists in the Northern State match.
The team’s sharp execution reflected a week of intense training focused on finishing and offensive cohesion.
| Match | Opponent | Result | Score | Key Players | Shots (ESU vs Opponent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 13, 2025 | U-Mary | Win | 3-1 | Peyton Pipes (1 goal) | 16 – 8 |
| Sept. 15, 2025 | Northern State | Win | 3-1 | Pipes (1 goal), Bachman (1 goal), Kephart (2 assists) | 16 – 8 |
Offensive Revival Sparks Victories
Coming into the weekend, the Hornets had scored only 1 goal on 16 shots in their previous two matches. Determined to change that trend, Head Coach Jane Grimley-Gunn emphasized finishing drills during training. The results were immediate.
Against U-Mary, Emporia State stormed to a 3-0 lead in the first half, effectively sealing the game early. Their relentless pressing and quick passing created multiple chances, showing their renewed attacking mindset.
In the Northern State game, the Hornets started slowly but quickly found rhythm, scoring three unanswered goals to secure their second consecutive win. Senior Abby Bachman added a highlight goal off a corner kick—something she said she had been practicing over the summer.
Defensive Discipline Under Pressure
While the weekend spotlight was on their attack, the Hornets’ defense quietly delivered, adapting effectively to different offensive patterns.
U-Mary attempted to switch their attacking style during the second half, but Emporia’s back line remained composed, limiting them to just eight shots.
Coach Grimley-Gunn praised the defense’s adaptability, saying it was crucial in maintaining control when opponents tried changing tactics.
The team’s ability to handle pressure without losing structure was a major reason they came away with two wins.
Breaking a Two-Year Drought
The sweep was historically significant — it marked the first time since 2023 that Emporia State recorded two wins in a single weekend. Grimley-Gunn highlighted the achievement as proof of the team’s potential and growing chemistry.
Players echoed this sentiment, with Bachman noting how “everything is coming together” and that the squad is “playing like a team”.
What’s Next: Road Trip to Colorado
The Hornets now turn their focus to a two-match road swing in Colorado. They’ll face Regis University on Sept. 19 — their first meeting in 12 years — followed by Colorado State University at Pueblo on Sept. 21.
Emporia State holds a 1-0 all-time record against Regis and is 1-1 against CSU-Pueblo, last facing them in 2021.
The team is preparing for altitude challenges, but Grimley-Gunn believes the squad thrives in adversity and is ready to rise to the occasion.
With two commanding wins in their home opener weekend, the Emporia State Women’s Soccer team has reignited their season and regained momentum heading into a crucial road trip.
Their rejuvenated attack, disciplined defense, and evident team chemistry signal a promising campaign ahead. If they continue this form, the Hornets could emerge as serious contenders in their conference.