CANYON, Texas – St. Edward's women's soccer turned precision into pressure, turning MARIE HANNEDOUCHE and JISELL ZAVALETA DENOVA's clinical passing into goals, and ANNIE ROCHA's finishing into the difference in a 3-2 victory over West Texas A&M on Saturday.

The Lady Buffs dictated the game's early tempo with corners and shots, probing St. Edward's defense until it stiffened—blocking consecutive attempts by Alicia Cohen and forcing a frustration foul near the 13th minute.

That resistance bought time for the Hilltoppers' midfield to find its rhythm. Rocha ignited the breakthrough in the 28th minute with defense that became offense, stripping possession and springing Zavaleta Denova. One touch right, one pass back against the grain, and RILEY SISSON was shoved down in the box. Rocha stepped to the spot for the penalty kick and went low left for the 1-0 lead.

The second goal showcased the artistry of connection. Hannedouche and Zavaleta Denova tore through the right flank on a give-and-go before Zavaleta Denova's cross met the stride of KATIE FITZPATRICK in the 38th minute.
Five minutes into the second half, a short corner between Zavaleta Denova and Hannedouche set Rocha up for her second goal and a 3-0 cushion.

But the Lady Buffs had a rally in them. Yamilet Ruiz lifted a shot top-left off a corner in the 58th minute, and Jezmin Castellanos Reyes scored out of a free kick home 10 minutes later. West Texas A&M surged, but the Hilltoppers steadied—building possession, testing Blancaflor with shots from RAINEY SIMMONS, Rocha, and MCKENNA KEELEY before the final Lady Buff attempt sailed high.

The Hilltoppers (1-1 conference) continue their road swing at Angelo State on Wednesday before returning to Austin for alumnae night and the Battle of the Saints against St. Mary's.