Kentucky Women's Soccer continues perfect season in win over Detroit Mercy

On Thursday, Kentucky Women’s Soccer moved to 3-0-0 on the 2024 season after a 2-0 victory over Detroit Mercy. This is the first time in program history that Kentucky opened the first three games of the season with shutout victories. Last week, the ‘Cats defeated Central Michigan (2-0) and Morehead State (2-0) to get the season rolling.

In the first half alone on Thursday, Kentucky outshot the Titans 14-1. Despite that, the ‘Cats couldn’t find the ball in the back of the net. Detroit Mercy goalkeeper Chantelle Symes seemed calm, cool, and collected, especially heading into the locker room at the half.

But after just six minutes of play in the second half, the ‘Cats finally struck gold. Sophomore Grace Hoytink and freshman Alexis Tylenda tag-teamed in a rush down the field to push the ball past Symes and mark a 1-0 lead. Then, in the 82nd minute, the ‘Cats secured their win. SEC Preseason Watchlist candidate Grace Phillpotts found striker Michelle Moskau who headed the ball to mark her first collegiate goal. With that goal, Phillpotts collected her second assist of the season.

Kentucky finished the match outshooting the Titans 30-1. The ‘Cats had seven shots on goal compared to Detroit’s one. Kentucky added 16 corner kicks, a new season-high.

This 3-0-0 start comes after five Kentucky players were named to the SEC’s Preseason Watchlist. Including Phillpotts, the list names Marzia Josephson, Maddie Kemp, Sophia Mattice, and Makala Woods. Plus, Kentucky earned three spots on national television this season. On Sept. 8, Kentucky faces No. 11 UCLA on ESPNU. Then on Oct. 13, the ‘Cats take on Vanderbilt on the SEC Network. Finally, on Oct. 27, Kentucky hosts Tennessee, also on the SEC Network.

Up next, the ‘Cats close their season-opening home stretch on Sunday as they welcome Jacksonville State (2-0-0). Opening kick takes place at the Bell at 1 p.m. EST.