BEAUMONT, Texas – Two first-half goals to go along with a dominant defensive performance by UTEP would lead to Lamar University falling, 2-0, Wednesday evening in El Paso to start the 2026 campaign.
Big Red was held to two shots throughout the contest while the Miners recorded 11. Sophomore goalkeeper
Eloise Bywater started the first half and collected a pair of saves. In her Cardinals' debut, senior
Keely Thomas took over in goal during the second half and held the Miners scoreless while recording three saves.
Throughout the first half, UTEP went on the offensive, outshooting the Cardinals, 6-1. After their first shot was saved by Bywater, the Miners found the back of the net in the 16
th and 27
th minutes, respectively, to take a 2-0 lead. LU struggled to get the ball on net as its only shot was blocked in the 34
th minute.
UTEP's play carried into the second half with five shots, but never extended the lead. The Cardinals' best chance to score came in the 72
nd minute, but they couldn't capitalize.
Big Red will have its home opener Sunday as it goes against Sam Houston. The game starts at 7 p.m. and will be streamed on ESPN+.
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