CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - The Eastern Kentucky University women's soccer team capped a historic regular season with a 2-0 victory over Austin Peay on Sunday, securing the No. 1 seed in the conference tournament for the first time in program history.
The Colonels advance directly to the semifinals on Nov. 11, where they will face the winner of the Nov. 8 matchup between Tarleton State and Austin Peay.
EKU has qualified for the conference tournament every season since 2021, setting a program record with six consecutive appearances. The Colonels also reached 10 wins for a third consecutive season, another program first.
With two goals Sunday, EKU matched the program's single-season record of 30 goals. The Colonels' season totals also moved into the top three in program history in both assists and shots.
Ana Manning opened the scoring in the 27th minute, finishing a cross from
Lauren Link for her first goal since Oct. 19, 2025. Manning, who has battled injuries for much of the season, tied for second on the team with four goals last season. Her return to form, along with Link's, adds another dimension to an already dangerous EKU attack.
Rachel Phifer doubled the lead in the 59th minute, making a run toward goal and collecting a through ball from
Avery May before placing a shot into the bottom left corner.
The goal was Phifer's fourth of the season, moving her into second on the team behind May's seven. May's season ranks among the most productive in program history, with single-season totals that place her second in shots, third in points, assists and shots on goal, and fourth in goals.
Jordan LeVasseur made four saves to record her fifth shutout of the season. She ranks second in the conference with 72 saves and leads all conference goalkeepers in shutouts during league play.
EKU controlled possession, 61% to 39%, and has held the possession advantage in all but one conference match this season. The Colonels also registered more than 20 shots, including 10 on goal.
"I'm proud of our team's spirit and aggressiveness today," head coach
Matt Cosinuke said. "I thought we executed our game plan well and deserved the three points on the road. It was a great way to end the regular season.
"Our attention turns to progress and focusing on the details in training this week. We've got to be more clinical with our chances and put games away earlier.
"Everything we want to achieve is out in front of us, and I know the team is hungry for the next chance to compete."
The Colonels now turn their attention to the United Athletic Conference Tournament, which begins Nov. 8 in Conway, Ark.
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