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Ohio University freshman Iro Fakinou (10) slides to kick the ball at the game against Valparaiso, Sept. 1, 2024, at Chessa Field.

Soccer: Everything you need to know about Ohio’s first in-conference matchup

Ohio (5-1-1) will look to continue its hot streak into conference play against Western Michigan (3-1-3) on Thursday evening. The Bobcats were clicking on all cylinders scoring seven goals against Oakland on Sunday. 

Now the team is currently riding a four-game winning streak, outscoring opponents 16-1 in that span. The Bobcats hope to ride the momentum into Thursday’s matchup against the Broncos. 

Match Information

Opponent: Western Kentucky 

Time: Thursday at 4 p.m.

Location: Chessa Field (Athens, Ohio)

Where to watch: ESPN+

Follow live stats here.

Ohio Notes

Ohio has been aggressive on both sides of the ball. The Bobcats hold a 3% goal rate which ranks second in the conference behind Ball State’s 3.143 average, while being tied for the second most shutouts with four, the leader being Akron. Junior goalkeeper Celeste Sloma, last week’s Mid-American Conference Defensive Player of the Week, has been spectacular as she’s only allowed one goal in the last three games for the Bobcats placing her in a tie for most shutouts for the MAC.

As for the offense the team spread the ball against Oakland allowing senior forward Aubrey Rea and freshman forward Sania Dearing to score two goals each. The Bobcats finished the game with four of their seven goals being assisted. 

Western Michigan Notes

The Broncos are coming off a tough road stretch with their most recent being a 1-1 tie against Depaul Sunday. The Broncos have been fighting as on their four game road stand they have gone 1-1-2. Limiting teams to scores led by senior goalkeeper Lauren Boafo. Boafo, since taking over the starting job, holds a 0.86 goals allowed average and 10 saves in four games so far for the Broncos, including six saves against Wisconsin. 

The Broncos offense is led by senior forwards Jen Blitchok and Abby Werthman. Blitchok leads the MAC in goals, shots and shots on goal. As for Werthman, she’s tied for second with the most assists and eighth in points.

Players to Watch 

Heading into this game, the Bobcats will look to counter the Broncos' offense with physicality. Keep your eye on sophomore forward Jaimason Brooker, who leads the team in assists and points. Brooker brings the firepower needed to counter the Broncos with her versatility to pass and shoot on goal. 

jh629721@ohio.edu

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