WPU Holds Harris-Stowe Scoreless in Season Debut

Oskaloosa–The Statesmen women’s soccer team began the 2024 season with a hard-fought scoreless draw against Harris-Stowe in non-conference action Saturday evening.

The Statesmen (0-0-1) dictated much of the match, outshooting the Hornets (0-0-1) 9-3. WPU placed five attempts on goal, while Harris-Stowe landed all three of its shots on frame.

William Penn produced five scoring chances in the first half while its back line stood firm, holding the Hornets without a single shot.

After halftime, the navy and gold pressed forward with four more looks, but the visitors found more rhythm, tallying three chances of their own. Goalkeeper Emma Billings (So., Salt Lake City, Utah, Psychology) turned away each one to record her first career shutout.

Six different Statesmen took part in the attack. Sian Bah (Sr., London, England, Political Science) led the way with three shots, while newcomer Cristina Velazquez Miranda (Fr., Antequera, Spain, Exercise Science) added two.

“Tonight was about perspective. There were so many positives to take away,” Head Coach Kaleb Preston said. “Of course, we wanted all three points, but we will learn from tonight and be a better team on Monday.”

Next Up: William Penn continues its homestand next Monday, hosting Hannibal-LaGrange (Mo.) at Drost Field at 5:00 p.m.