WKU Soccer’s high press lifted the Hilltoppers to a 2-1 win over a 10-woman Kennesaw State in their opening Conference USA game. 

WKU controlled much of the first half in the Kennesaw half, pressing high and moving the ball to create openings. 

The Hilltoppers produced several chances from outside the box and broke through in the 29th minute on a strike from junior midfielder Georgia Liapis. 

“That’s really one of the things we worked on at practice all week, was attacking soccer and being a more aggressive team, and we showed that today,” Head Coach Jason Neidell said.

Kennesaw State managed only one shot in the first half as they struggled to create chances moving forward. 

After a half of minimal offensive presence, the Owls faced another setback just after halftime when freshman goalkeeper Sara Hill was sent off in the 46th minute for a handball. 

However, Kennesaw State managed to level the match in the 64th minute after junior midfielder Anabel Orozco connected with a cross inside the box. 

“I think we got casual and they got a little more aggressive after the red card, and it didn’t really feel that we were up a player. I think that their goal helped us refocus,” Neidell said.

The Hilltoppers got back on top in the 73rd minute thanks to an own goal from senior defender Raelyn Prince. 

WKU Soccer returns to action Saturday, Sept. 27, against Middle Tennessee at the WKU Soccer Complex.