The Basics
The Drake women's soccer team is back in Des Moines as it begins its conference slate of the 2025 schedule with a match versus Valparaiso on Saturday evening. The match from Mediacom Stadium is set for a 5 p.m. kickoff and is part of a doubleheader with the Drake men's soccer team, who will go up against Oral Roberts at 7:30 p.m.
 
Bulldogs by the Numbers
The Bulldogs finished their non-conference portion of the schedule with an even record of 3-3-3. In their most recent match, Drake came away with a 1-1 draw in a road contest with Butler. Drake's defense was under fire for most of the contest as Butler totaled 18 shots in the match, but Drake was saved by sophomore Isabella Balsley scoring a goal in the 90th minute to secure the tie. Kate Hopma started in goal for Drake in the match against Butler and made a career-high six saves off of 15 shots faced.
 
Drake Leaders
Eve Blakey l 12 PTS – 5 G – 2 A - 12 SH – 9 SOG
Madelyn Smith l 6 PTS – 2 G – 2 A - 13 SH – 7 SOG
Angela Gutierrez l 6 PTS – 1 G - 4 A – 17 SH – 8 SOG
Addie Ford l 3-2-2 W/L – 26 SV – 6 GA - .813 SV%
 
Scouting Valparaiso
The Beacons finished their non-conference schedule and come into Saturdays match with an overall record of 3-4-1. In its last time out, Valpo routed Western Illinois in a 5-1 victory. That win over the Leathernecks came on Sep. 11, so the Beacons will be well rested heading into their match with the Bulldogs. Senior Molly O'Rear presents a challenge and the midfielder was represented on the preseason All-MVC First Team.
 
In the all-time series, Drake owns the advantage with a record of 8-4-1 against the Beacons. Drake came away with the win last year against Valpo, 2-1, on the road, but as of late the Beacons have fared well against Drake winning three of the last five meetings.
 
Valparaiso Leaders
Kiara Desiderio l 11 PTS – 5 G – 1 A - 19 SH – 11 SOG
Martha Goddard l 7 PTS – 2 G – 3 A - 11 SH – 6 SOG
Molly O'Rear l 7 PTS – 2 G - 3 A – 12 SH – 7 SOG
Kate Sheridan l 3-4-1 W/L – 29 SV – 13 GA – .690 SV%
 
Up Next
The Bulldogs will hit the road for its next match and travel to the Music City for a contest against Belmont. The Bulldogs and Bruins will take to the pitch in Nashville, Tennessee on Thursday, Sep. 25, with kickoff slated for 6:30 p.m. CT.