PETERSBURG, Va. (Sept. 12, 2026) – The Virginia State University women's soccer team picked up a 1-0 victory over Bluefield State on Saturday, using a strong defensive effort and a second-half goal from Erica Mathews to secure the win.
The Trojans controlled the pace early, creating several scoring opportunities throughout the opening half. Virginia State recorded 10 shots in the first 45 minutes and held Bluefield State to just one shot as the two teams entered halftime tied 0-0.
Virginia State continued to apply pressure after the break, and the persistence paid off in the 63rd minute. Mathews found the back of the net off an assist from Jada Savage, giving the Trojans a 1-0 advantage.
The VSU defense continued to hold strong for the remainder of the match, limiting Bluefield State to just one additional shot in the second half. The Trojans goalkeeper Ava Patterson made one save to preserve the shutout.
Virginia State finished the match with a 15-2 advantage in shots and held a commanding 12-1 edge in corner kicks. Mathews led the Trojans with four shots, including two on goal, while Carra Fitzgerald also recorded four shots. Savage added an assist and helped anchor the Trojans' offensive attack.
