Buena Vista, VA. — The North Carolina Wesleyan women's soccer team saw its 2026 season come to a close on Saturday afternoon, battling top-seeded Southern Virginia University to the final whistle in a narrow 1-0 decision at Knight Stadium.
The Battling Bishops faced pressure early, but Allie O'Leary turned in a strong performance in goal to keep NC Wesleyan within striking distance. O'Leary made her first save in the 12th minute before Samantha Fore responded with an opportunity on the other end, putting a shot on goal less than a minute later.
Southern Virginia broke through at the 20:19 mark when Bailey Ricker scored off an assist from McKenna Currey to give the Knights a 1-0 advantage. The Bishops remained composed defensively following the goal, with O'Leary making two more saves before halftime to keep the deficit at one.
NC Wesleyan continued to battle after the break, holding Southern Virginia off the scoreboard throughout the entire second half. O'Leary and the Bishops' defense repeatedly turned away opportunities as they kept themselves within one goal of forcing the match level.
The Bishops pushed for the equalizer, with Fore adding another attempt in the 59th minute before Makena Meyer put a shot on goal at the 62:30 mark, forcing a save from Southern Virginia goalkeeper Chloë Miller. NC Wesleyan earned a corner kick moments later as the Bishops continued searching for the tying goal.
O'Leary continued her standout effort through the closing minutes, making several late saves to keep the Bishops within striking distance. She finished the afternoon with 10 saves while playing all 90 minutes in goal. Fore and Meyer each recorded a shot on goal, while Jordan Fernandez also added an attempt for NC Wesleyan.
Despite the result, the Battling Bishops closed their season with a determined effort against the USA South's top seed, holding Southern Virginia scoreless over the final 69 minutes of the match and continuing to compete through the final whistle.
As the 2026 season comes to a close, North Carolina Wesleyan Athletics would like to extend a special thank-you to this year's senior class. Their dedication, leadership and commitment to the women's soccer program have made a lasting impact both on and off the field. We thank them for everything they have given to NC Wesleyan and wish them nothing but the best in all that comes next.
Thank you, seniors, for representing the Battling Bishops with pride and for the memories you have created throughout your time at North Carolina Wesleyan.
