NORTH CANTON, OH: The Walsh University Women's Soccer team opened the 2026 season on Thursday night, earning a 5-1 victory over the Wheeling University Cardinals. The Cavaliers controlled the match from start to finish, using a strong second half to pull away for the season-opening victory.
The Maroon and Gold came out attacking in the first half, recording 12 shots while keeping the Cardinals defense under pressure. After nearly 40 minutes of scoreless action, Corinne Casenhiser found the back of the net with just under six minutes remaining in the half, giving Walsh a 1-0 advantage heading into the break.
The Cavs came out of halftime and quickly added to their lead. Just over three minutes into the second half, Jamie Duskey scored off an assist from Maddie Benner, pushing the Walsh lead to 2-0. The offense continued to pressure Wheeling, and Bri Thomas converted a penalty kick less than six minutes later to make it 3-0.
Walsh continued to control the second half as Kailey Hobart found the back of the net in the 76th minute with an assist from Maddie Budding. Just 40 seconds later, Thomas scored her second goal of the night, with Hobart and Lyla Maher earning assists on the play.
Wheeling would add a late goal, but the Cavaliers had already built too much of a lead. The Cavs finished the night with 27 shots, including 16 on goal, while holding the Cardinals to just four shots.
The Women will return to the pitch at Saginaw Valley State next Friday.Â
LOCATION: Larry Staudt Field
SCORE: Walsh 5 - Wheeling 1
RECORDS: Walsh 1-0, Wheeling 0-1
FOR THE CAVS
