CRESTVIEW HILLS, Kentucky -- The Lake Erie women's soccer team battled the Saints on Saturday afternoon, coming away with a 2-2 tie. In the first period, freshman Sophie Gardner netted her first collegiate goal to give the Storm an early 1-0 lead. After Thomas More equalized later in the half, Arielle Fink quickly regained the advantage just 42 seconds later, sending Lake Erie into halftime up 2-1. The Saints struck again in the 72nd minute to even things at two, where the score would remain through the final whistle. With a record of 6-1-3, the Storm will look to keep their strong start going against Findlay (4-2-3) after a week of rest. They remain in third place in the conference standings behind just Ashland and Cedarville.

Game Recap

It took nearly 23 minutes, but when the Storm finally broke through for their first shot, they made it count. Sophie Gardner delivered her first collegiate goal to put Lake Erie on the board. On the Saints' side, they fired two shots in the opening four minutes—both off target—before enduring a 30-minute drought. Their next attempt found the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1. Fink responded almost immediately, scoring just 42 seconds later to restore the lead before halftime.

In the second period, the Saints raised their level and found more rhythm on both ends. They recorded five shots on goal, with four saved by goalkeeper Morgan Vanmeter, but one slipping through in the 72nd minute to secure the tie. While Lake Erie created chances—including a season-high five corner kicks in the half—they managed just one shot on target over the final 45 minutes.

The Matchup

Lake Erie entered Saturday's game 0-4 all-time against the Saints and coming off a 5-1 loss last season. While a tie may feel disappointing after leading much of the way, the result highlights the growth and promise within the program.

Looking Ahead

With their next game not until next Saturday against Findlay, the Storm get a well-earned break before beginning their final eight regular-season matches. Four of their next five contests will be at home, but the schedule won't get easier—Ashland, Findlay, and Cedarville, the preseason No. 1, 3, and 4 in the conference, are all on deck.

For Findlay, the Oilers have alternated between their senior goalkeepers, with Audrey Gibson-Zweifel projected to start if the pattern continues. Lake Erie will also look to contain senior Sydney Noble, a 2024 G-MAC First Team selection who leads Findlay with five goals this season.