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ATHENS, Ohio – Playing at Chessa Field in front of fans for the first time since the 2019 season, the Ohio Bobcats (2-0-0) topped Marshall 2-0 in its 2021 home opener Thursday (Aug. 26). It was the the team's second straight shutout to start the 2021 campaign. Paige Knorr and Shae Robertson each scored a goal in the first half to lead the Bobcats' effort against the Thundering Herd.  

Robertson struck first, knocking in a goal in the 19th minute to give the Bobcats a 1-0 lead over Marshall. Fast forward to the 33rd minute where Regan Berg set up the second goal, with Paige Knorr finding the back of the net to give the Bobcats a 2-0 advantage going into halftime.  

Following the intermission, the Bobcats held strong defensively in the second half, blocking any attempts Marshall made at a comeback.  

"It's always good to open up the home season with a win, securing this win is great," head coach Aaron Rodgers said. "Marshall played a great game, especially in the second half, meaning our team had to be quicker on the ball and defend a bit stronger." 

Goalkeeper Sam Wexell played all 90 minutes, making a total of three saves. Another strong performance by Wexell resulted in her second consecutive shutout. 

"Sam has been such an awesome teammate and part of our program," Rodgers said. "This is her time to play, and I'm proud of her for all the work she has done and the patience she's had to be in this position this season." 

The Bobcats outshot Marshall 20-14, with 10 of the Bobcats' shots coming in the first half. The match turned into a battle of defense, as Marshall pushed back in the second half, but Ohio's early attacking success ultimately sealed the victory. 

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The Bobcats will now shift their focus to Sunday's (Aug. 29) match against JMU, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. at Chessa Field. It will be the first meeting all-time between the two schools. 
 
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