WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – Salem University women's soccer fell 8-0 on Sunday afternoon at the West Family Complex, as West Liberty broke through early and never looked back.
The Hilltoppers scored four times in the opening half and added four more in the second, led by Perla Bäckberg's hat trick and Maya Taggart's two assists. West Liberty outshot Salem 49-1 and held a 13-0 advantage in corner kicks.
Despite the pressure, Salem goalkeeper Janiya Brooks-Crews turned in a determined effort, finishing with 15 saves, including nine in the opening 45 minutes. She also stopped a pair of one-on-one opportunities in the second half to slow the Hilltoppers' attack.
The Tigers nearly got on the board late when Niah Hidalgo earned a penalty kick in the 88th minute, but her attempt was off target. Hidalgo recorded Salem's lone shot of the day, keeping the Tigers fighting until the final whistle.
The Tigers continue their road trip this week as they are set to head down to Buckhannon, West Virginia to face off with the West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats on Wednesday, October 1st.
