INDIANA, Pa. – The IUP Crimson Hawks women's soccer team continued their strong start to PSAC play Wednesday evening with a 3–1 win over Clarion at South Campus Field.
 
Elle Smith, Avery Clanton and Emily Lattea all scored goals, as IUP extended its run at home. The Crimson Hawks controlled possession for much of the match, outshooting Clarion and generating consistent offensive pressure across both halves.
 
First Half
 
The Crimson Hawks came out on the front foot, breaking through early in the 8th minute when Clanton found the back of the net with a well-placed finish to the bottom center, putting IUP ahead 1–0.
 
Clarion managed to level the score midway through the first half after a defensive deflection led to a goal in the 23rd minute, tying the match at 1–1.
 
The Crimson Hawks quickly regained control, responding with two goals in quick succession. In the 34th minute, Lattea converted from close range following a precise assist from Jordina Rovira Sole, restoring the IUP lead. Less than a minute later, Smith struck again with a composed finish for her second goal of the evening, giving the Hawks a 3–1 advantage.
 
IUP continued to press, with Abby Caruso nearly adding a fourth moments later, but her shot was saved by Clarion goalkeeper Sage Sherk. The Hawks went into halftime with momentum and a two-goal cushion.
 
Second Half
 
IUP maintained its attacking intensity to open the second half, recording several quality chances. Paige Fausey tested Sherk with a low shot in the 49th minute, and Kat Morgan sent another attempt wide in the 53rd. The Hawks continued to control possession, earning multiple corner kicks to keep the pressure on Clarion's defense.
 
Defensively, IUP was composed and organized. Goalkeeper Serayah Leech, who entered at halftime, made a key save in the 70th minute to deny Clarion's Paige Griest and preserve the two-goal lead.
 
The Hawks saw out the final minutes confidently, managing substitutions across the lineup while limiting Clarion's chances. IUP's midfield dictated play throughout the half, ensuring the 3–1 scoreline held until the final whistle. IUP Goalkeepers: Sarah Gatz and Serayah Leech combined for two saves.
 
The Crimson Hawks improved their overall record to (8-1-2) with the win, maintaining momentum in PSAC play with a record of (6-1-1)
 
IUP will return to South Campus Field on Wednesday, Oct. 15 when the Crimson Hawks take on the Mansfield Mountaineers.