Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 30, 2025
News Summary
The Western Kentucky University (WKU) women’s soccer team suffered a narrow defeat against the University of Dayton, losing 1-0. Despite recording 7 shots and a commendable performance from goalkeeper Maddie Davis, WKU could not find the back of the net. The only goal of the match came from Dayton’s Laney Smith in the 33rd minute. WKU’s head coach expressed satisfaction with the team’s effort and looks forward to their next match against Union.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – WKU Women’s Soccer Team Defeated by Dayton 1-0
The Western Kentucky University (WKU) women’s soccer team faced a setback in their early season campaign, losing to the University of Dayton with a final score of 1-0 on August 28, 2025. This defeat brings WKU’s overall record to 2 wins, 2 losses (2-2-0) for the season, while Dayton improved their record to 2 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw (2-1-1).
Dayton secured the match with the only goal scored during the contest in the 33rd minute, delivered by Laney Smith and assisted by Emery Newlin. The game took place at the WKU Soccer Complex in Bowling Green, where the home team aimed to capitalize on their recent performances.
WKU started the match with determination, as Georgia Liapis registered their first shot early in the game. Throughout the match, WKU totaled 7 shots, with 4 occurring in the first half and 3 in the second half. Despite their efforts, they were unable to convert any of these shots into goals.
Goalkeeper Maddie Davis played a commendable role in the match, making a total of 3 saves—2 in the first half and 1 in the second. Her performance helped keep the scoreline close, but the team ultimately fell short. The second half saw shots from Mia Merritt, Georgia Liapis, and Abby Wiedermann, indicating WKU’s persistent push for an equalizer.
WKU head coach Jason Neidell indicated a level of satisfaction with the team’s performance despite the loss, noting the players displayed effort, intensity, and good ball movement throughout the match. He underscored that the team showed a positive attitude, reflecting on their determination and focus on the field.
Looking forward, WKU is scheduled to host Union on Sunday, August 31, 2025, which will mark the end of a three-game homestand for the Lady Toppers. The upcoming match has a kickoff time set for 6 p.m. CT, where WKU will seek to bounce back from this narrow defeat and secure a victory on their home turf.
For fans and supporters wishing to follow more about the WKU soccer program, details and updates can be found on their official sports webpage or their active social media accounts.
Match Summary:
- Final Score: WKU 0, Dayton 1
- WKU Record: 2-2-0
- Dayton Record: 2-1-1
- WKU Shots: 7 (4 in 1st half, 3 in 2nd half)
- Goalkeeper Saves: Maddie Davis: 3 (2 in 1st half, 1 in 2nd half)
- Goal: Laney Smith (33rd minute, assisted by Emery Newlin)
- Next Game: vs. Union, August 31, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT
FAQ Section
What was the final score of the WKU vs. Dayton match?
WKU lost to Dayton with a final score of 1-0.
When is WKU’s next soccer match?
WKU is scheduled to play Union on August 31, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT.
Who scored the only goal in the WKU vs. Dayton match?
The only goal was scored by Laney Smith in the 33rd minute, assisted by Emery Newlin.
Key Features of the Match
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Match Result | WKU 0, Dayton 1 |
| Total Shots (WKU) | 7 |
| Saves by Maddie Davis | 3 |
| Next Opponent | Union |
| Next Match Date | August 31, 2025 |
| Next Match Time | 6 p.m. CT |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WKU Athletics Unveils August Events and Promotions
WKU Athletes Shine with Player of the Week Honors
WKU Athletics Announces Upcoming Sporting Events
WKU Women’s Soccer Starts Season with Loss to Ohio Bobcats
WKU Women’s Soccer Opens Season with Defeat
WKU Women’s Soccer Begins New Season Against Ohio
WKU Honors Bryson Davis with Spirit of WKU Award
Western Kentucky Soccer Drops Exhibition Match to Lipscomb
Weekend Overview of Kentucky Events and Updates
WKU Women’s Soccer Prepares for Final Exhibition Match Against Lipscomb
Additional Resources
- WKU Sports: Hilltoppers Fall to Dayton
- Dayton Flyers: UDWSOC Heads to Kentucky
- WKU Sports: Hilltoppers Welcome Dayton
- Google Search: WKU Women’s Soccer
- WKU Sports: Hilltoppers Wrap Up Homestand
- Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University



