Southwestern University

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS – The Southwestern University Women's Soccer team opened its 2026 season with a 0-0 draw Tuesday night at Varsity Field against Huston-Tillotson University. The shutout marked the Pirates first on opening day since the 2022 season. Southwestern moves to 0-0-1 after the draw. 

 

With neither team recording a shot through the first 30 minutes, Southwestern turned up the pressure late in the half, recording three shots in the span of four minutes. Kacey Ehlen attempted SU's first shot of the season at the 34:51 mark, followed by shots from MeKenzie Kotko (36:39) and Ehlen (37:53). Ehlen was able to get one more look at the 41:38 mark but was unable to find the net. 

 

The rams were able to get some looks in the second half, registered eight shots, three of which were on goal to Southwestern's 10 second half shots. 

 

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS 

• Southwestern outshot Huston-Tillotson 14-8.  

• Ehlen took the first shot of the season for the Pirates. 

• Jackie Powell and Ehlen led Southwestern with three shots apiece. 

• Maddie Holland, Matti Penders took two shots each, while Kristine Garcia, Camila Mireles, MeKenzie Kotko and Ava Perry recorded one shot apiece.  

• Garcia and Ehlen recorded shots on goal. 

• Penders and EJ Searfoss played all 90 minutes. 

• Searfoss registered three saves at goalie, with all three coming in the second half. 

• Southwestern recorded five corner kicks to the Rams one. 

• All of the Rams shots came in the second half while the Pirates recorded four in the first half and 10 in the second.  

  

• Searfoss registered her ninth career clean sheet in 19 career games after posting three saves. 

• Southwestern's 14 shot attempts are the most in season opener since the Pirates recorded 14 in the 2019 season opener.  

 

The Pirates return to the pitch on Friday as they travel to Belton to face University of Mary-Hardin Baylor. The match is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. and will be streamed on Flo College.