Samford Soccer Set to Open SoCon Play Against Western Carolina

Historically, Samford has faced Western Carolina 22 times, leading the series with a record of 15 wins, 5 losses, and 2 draws. Last season, the teams ended in a 2-2 draw at Shauna Yelton Field. The squads also faced off in the championship matches of the 2023 and 2024 SoCon Tournaments, with Western Carolina winning the former and Samford claiming victory in the latter.

Samford boasts an all-time record of 158-25-26 against current Southern Conference members, and specifically holds a SoCon record of 133-17-25 against both current and former members.

Entering Sunday’s game, Samford's record stands at 3-2-3, following a 2-0 loss to UAB on September 10. Martha Bishop leads the Bulldogs in scoring with two goals, while Brinley Murphy, Mary-Ainsley Alack, Sam De Luca, Hayven Laurendine, Alex Parr, and Alyssa Tutas have contributed one goal each.

Goalkeeper Peyton Hull has started all eight matches this season, holding a 0.51 goals against average and allowing only four goals in 702 minutes of play.

Head coach Todd Yelton is in his 25th year with the program, sporting a career record of 344-156-76 and is the school's all-time winningest coach with 304 wins at Samford.

Western Carolina enters the match with a record of 3-5-1, including 1-0 in SoCon play after a recent 1-0 win over UNCG.

Gabriela Vatrano is the leading scorer for the Catamounts with two goals, contributing four points, while Malia Roberts has added another goal and an assist for three points. Goalkeepers Elizabeth Rupert and Amara Yetka have shared time in goal for Western Carolina this season.

Sunday’s game will begin at 12 p.m. (CT) and can be streamed live on ESPN+. Live statistics will also be available during the match. For more information on Samford soccer, visit SamfordSports.com or follow the team on social media.