Milwaukee City Wire

Lainey Higgins scored twice, including a goal just 34 seconds into the match, leading the Milwaukee women's soccer team to a 4-0 victory over Youngstown State at Engelmann Stadium. The Panthers (5-6-2, 4-0-1 Horizon League) secured their lead with two more goals in the second half against the Penguins (4-8-2, 2-4-0 Horizon League).

Milwaukee's offense was active throughout the game, taking 29 shots and hitting the crossbar twice. This marked their fifth consecutive game with over 20 shots, a streak not seen since 2008. The win extended Milwaukee's unbeaten run in regular-season Horizon League play to 24 games and maintained their perfect record against Youngstown State at Engelmann.

"Pretty special start there," said head coach Kevin Boyd. "Ellie (Rebmann) got it and put a really good ball across right in front of the keeper and Lainey's timing and her finish was exceptional."

Higgins' first goal was assisted by Ellie Rebmann with a well-timed header, marking one of the fastest goals in program history. Despite an early lead and an 11-2 shot advantage at halftime, Milwaukee only extended their lead after intermission when Higgins scored again off the crossbar.

Lola Wojcik had a close-range shot saved in the first half, while Molly O'Regan hit the crossbar twice. "Second half … what you get when you are attacking and things are going your way, you get some special goals," Boyd commented on his team's performance.

Senya Meurer added to Milwaukee's tally with a free kick goal late in the second half. Maya Wilson capped off the scoring with her first collegiate goal from a rebound.

Boyd praised Youngstown State for their recent form: "Not to take anything away from Youngstown State either... they attack in a dangerous way."

Goalkeeper Parker Donahugh recorded her fourth clean sheet in five conference games with seven saves. She kept Milwaukee ahead with several crucial stops.

The Panthers dominated statistically with advantages in shots (29-9), shots on goal (11-7), and corner kicks (7-4). Higgins led with seven shot attempts.

Milwaukee will next face Purdue Fort Wayne on Sunday at noon CT.