Hokies Take Down Old Dominion 18-5

Jacob Sprigg

Staff Writer

April 10, 2024

Kayla Downey was big for Virginia Tech in its win over Old Dominion. (Virginia Tech Athletics)

BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech held off Old Dominion in a non-conference battle, where the Hokies (9-6) dominated the Monarchs (3-11), 18-5.  

The Hokies came into this Wednesday afternoon game looking to end a two-game skid, where they previously lost against two ACC foes, Clemson and North Carolina. The Monarchs had lost their last six coming into Blacksburg, and now after their loss against the Hokies, they have lost their last seven straight.  

Virginia Tech came out firing in the first quarter and partially through the second, scoring nine unanswered goals. The Hokies knew coming into this game they had to get out to a hot start and did exactly that. Each of the first five goals were scored by different players, as the Hokies were able to spread the ball around well. The Monarchs were able to put up two goals of their own, making the score 9-2 at the half.  

The Virginia Tech offense did not slow down coming out of the half, as they scored five straight to open the second half. The Monarchs were unable to slow any of the Hokies down on the offensive side of the ball, as the final score was 18-5.  

Fifth-year senior student Kayla Downey was a huge factor in today’s victory as she put up six total assists and two goals of her own. 

“I give credit to my cutters, they were able to get open so I could get them the ball,” Downey said. “They showed zone defense early, something we had practiced hard all week. We went out there and executed.” There were also other scorers who were able to put in multiple goals of their own, including Olivia Vergano, Grace New, Lauren Render and Paige Tyson.  

Despite the loss, ODU did have one star shine in the game vs the Hokies. Sophomore Emma Rowland scored four out of the five total goals scored by the Monarchs, all of which were unassisted goals.  

“We did a great job of shooting,” Tech head coach Kristen Skiera said. “We competed harder on the draw, going 10-3 in the second half.” Virginia Tech also dominated in shots on goal, where this was completely lopsided 25-6.  

Virginia Tech looks to stay positive with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish coming to town on Saturday. 

“They were number one in the country at one point, we have nothing to lose,” Skiera said. “We have to share the ball and minimize turnovers.” 

Downey also seemed optimistic about facing the familiar foe.

“We have to dial in for Notre Dame.”

Virginia Tech will be seeking their third conference win in a tough ACC matchup on Saturday in Blacksburg.