By Henry Quach

COLLEGE PARK, MD — Maryland women’s soccer gained the full three points in its final home regular season match, breaking a more-than 700 day conference scoring drought in an emphatic 2-0 victory over Nebraska.

The Terps’ defense was tested early in the first half, after two shots by Nebraska. But in an impressive display, senior goalkeeper Liz Beardsley stepped up, recording her first save in just the fourth minute of play.

Maryland soon took advantage of its strong, pressure defense – finding an attacking opportunity in the 13th minute but unable to capitalize on the opportunity. 

The majority of the first half proved to be a back-and-forth defensive effort after early scoring opportunities for both teams – with the Terps failing to convert once more, missing on a high shot in the 22nd minute.

After a 40 minute standstill for both teams, Maryland’s offense took charge – as senior Katie Coyle and redshirt sophomore forward Kelsey Smith connected with respective assists, finding junior forward Delaney DeMartino for the go-ahead goal.

The score broke the silence, putting the Terps up 1-0, while serving as Maryland’s first Big Ten goal since October 2022.

Both respective offenses were only able to get a few opportunities after the early Maryland goal, but the Terps headed to halftime in the driver’s seat. 

It would continue a physical game to begin the second half, but a Maryland player advantage – as a result of a Nebraska red card in the 52nd minute – proved crucial down the stretch.

The Cornhuskers’ penalty provided Maryland with an opportunity to extend its offensive momentum. 

The Terps did just that, as Coyle, who assisted in the first goal, found the back of the net in the 77th minute.

Smith accounted for her second assist on Maryland’s second score – helping Coyle get free past Nebraska defenders to double the home lead.

Expert defense in the final minutes held the road team scoreless until the final whistle sounded. With the win, the Terps enter the win column for the first time in conference play – heading into a crucial final road stretch to close out the 2024 season.

Maryland will look to keep building momentum, starting its three-game road trip at Minnesota on Thursday.