Kentucky women’s soccer (7-0-0) delivered a season-defining victory on Sunday, defeating No. 9 UCLA (5-2-1) with a 2-0 shutout at the Bell Soccer Complex. The win ties the Wildcats’ best start to a season in 13 years, matching their 2011 campaign. Goals from Makala Woods and Catherine DeRosa secured the Wildcats’ victory over the West Coast powerhouse.
How It Happened
UCLA entered the match depleted but determined to secure a win before returning to Los Angeles. However, Kentucky had different plans, taking the game to the Bruins early. In the first 15 minutes, the Wildcats pressed forward, with Alexis Tylenda and Anna Sikorski narrowly missing the target. Just a minute later, Maddie Kemp lofted a ball into the box for Makala Woods, who was fouled by UCLA goalkeeper Ryan Campbell. The foul resulted in Kentucky’s third penalty kick of the season. Woods calmly placed the ball into the left side of the net, giving the Wildcats a 1-0 lead in the 16th minute. Kentucky carried that advantage into halftime, leading UCLA 8-4 in shots.
In the second half, Kentucky looked to add to their lead and found success in the 62nd minute. Mia Bookhard was fouled outside the box, setting up a free kick for Catherine DeRosa. Known as “Bootsie” to her teammates, DeRosa delivered a perfectly placed shot over the wall and into the net, giving Kentucky a 2-0 lead. It was DeRosa’s first goal since transferring from Maryland and her fifth career goal overall.
From there, the Wildcats shifted focus to defense, thwarting UCLA’s efforts to mount a comeback. Kentucky’s backline, which has only conceded two goals in seven games, stood firm to secure the shutout.
Notables
- Kentucky matches its best start to a season since 2011 with a 7-0-0 record.
- The Wildcats earned their sixth consecutive home win and their first-ever victory against UCLA in the all-time series.
- Makala Woods scored her second penalty of the season and now has four goals this year.
- Catherine DeRosa netted her first goal for Kentucky since transferring from Maryland.
- Kentucky held UCLA to its highest number of goals conceded this season.
Quotable
The Wildcats’ defense has been pivotal to their success, with head coach Troy Fabiano emphasizing their resilience: “Our defensive effort was tremendous today. UCLA is a strong team, but we stayed disciplined and made the plays when it mattered most.”
Next Up
Kentucky will host Kent State for Senior Night at the Bell Soccer Complex on Friday, September 13th. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
