Denison University

GRANVILLE, Ohio- Bouncing back from its 2-1 loss earlier this week, the Denison women's soccer team found its footing, beating Otterbein University, 1-0, in front of a packed set of home stands, following a rocket by Brimmer Mather. The Big Red improved to 1-1 for the season, while the Cardinals dropped to 0-2 to open up the 2026 campaign. 

From the first whistle, Denison controlled the pace of the match, getting quick balls down the sideline and putting up seven shots, while giving up none on its defensive end. The Big Red forced the Cardinals to play reactively for most of the match, tallying four corners to their opponents' two in the first half. 

Entering the second half tied at zero, Denison managed to ramp up its pressure in the opening minutes of the second half and eventually broke through Otterbein's defensive line in the 64th minute of play. Following a scrum at the top of the goalie box, senior midfielder Mattie Mielke skipped a pass across the 18-yard line to the feet of first-year Brimmer Mather. Mather would then settle the ball and, with a swift right foot, found the back left corner of the Cardinals' goal to put the Big Red up 1-0. That career first goal would be all Denison would need to keep the lead and earn their first win of the season.

The Big Red's offense dominated the Cardinals, resulting in Denison outshooting their opponents 23-to-3. On the defensive end, the Big Red's backline helped sophomore Caroline Hague keep her first clean sheet of the season, giving up just three corners across regulation. 

Up Next for the Big Red

Denison returns to Kienzle-Hylbert Stadium on Saturday, September 6, to take on the Kalamazoo College Hornets. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. ET.