Maryland women’s soccer suffers 5-0 loss to No. Michigan State to open conference play

Photo courtesy of Ashley Ray/Maryland Terrapins

Maryland women’s soccer (3-3-3, 0-1 Big Ten) suffered a tough defeat against No. 5 Michigan State on Thursday. The Spartans dominated 5-0 in a one-sided match at Ludwig Field. 

Michigan State (6-0-2, 1-0) wasted no time making an impact as it pressed forward from the opening whistle. Just over a minute into the game, the Spartans nearly broke through when Meg Hughes’ shot rattled off the right post. The Terps had little time to recover, as Michigan State quickly capitalized on the rebound. Bella Najera pounced on the opportunity, slotting the ball into the net at 1:08, putting the Spartans up 1-0.

This early goal gave Michigan State an immediate advantage and set the tone for the rest of the match. Maryland, led by goalkeeper Liz Beardsley, found themselves on the back foot as Michigan State applied heavy pressure.

Despite allowing five goals Beardsley collected four saves, enough for a 44% save percentage. The senior was coming off a stellar match against VCU where she made seven saves without allowing a goal.

A few minutes later into the first half, Michigan State’s relentless attacks continued. Emily Matthews scored, assisted by Justina Gaynor and Bella Najera, doubling the lead to 2-0. Maryland tried to respond, but its efforts were thwarted by Michigan State’s solid defense and consistent pressure. 

The Terps’ closest chance came when Madison Krakower shot, only to be denied by Spartan goalkeeper Kaitlyn Parks. Moments later, Michigan State extended their lead further when Julia Belli, assisted by Gaynor, found the back of the net, making it 4-0. 

Maryland’s struggles persisted as it faced a well-organized Michigan State squad. The Spartans rounded off their scoring in the 88th minute with a goal from Ella Janz, assisted by Cassidy Corcione, sealing the five-goal victory.

Despite the early setback, the Terps attempted to regroup and find a foothold in the game. However, the Spartans’ midfield dominance and swift ball movement limited Maryland’s ability to maintain possession. The Terps managed to hold off further damage for the remainder of the first half but struggled to create any meaningful chances of their own. Michigan State’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Kaitlyn Parks, remained firm, thwarting any attack Maryland attempted to mount.

The Terps will look to bounce back in their next match against Washington next Thursday, hoping to shake off the sting of this loss.

The Terps will look to bounce back in their next match against Washington next Thursday, hoping to shake off the sting of this loss.