Box Score PORTALES, NM. -- The Wayland Baptist women's soccer team started the 2025 season in dominant fashion on Saturday afternoon, shutting out NCAA Division II opponent Eastern New Mexico, 3–0, to give head coach Alex Castaneda his first career win at the helm of the program.
The Pioneers controlled the match from start to finish, outshooting the Greyhounds 15–12 while putting 10 shots on frame. Goalkeeper Ava Kent anchored the defense, recording seven saves en route to her first clean sheet of the season.
Wayland broke through in the 32nd minute when Camila Zavala netted the first goal of the season to give the Pioneers a 1–0 lead heading into halftime. Out of the break, Ashley Perez doubled the advantage in the 59th minute, giving the Pioneers a two-goal lead. Just eight minutes later, Jillanda Sandy scored her first career goal as a Pioneer to put the match out of reach.
Defensively, the Lady Pioneers were organized and resilient, fending off multiple second-half pushes from ENMU, including a pair of shots off the crossbar. Kent's strong performance between the posts and a backline anchored by Aniyah Perez and Narriah Gomez secured the shutout.
Head Coach Alex Castaneda spoke about his team's performance saying, "The team played well. They created a lot of attacking chances on goal and were able to convert on three opportunities. Defensively, we were very solid in locking down the eastern attack and taking players out of the game, forcing them to make changes to the way they played."
"Things are starting to click a little more with this group and I'm excited to fully see what this team is capable of going forward," Castaneda finished.
With the victory, Wayland Baptist improves to 1–0 on the season, while also handing Castaneda a memorable first win as head coach.
The Lady Pioneers return to action on Thursday, August 28, when they travel to Dallas to face Paul Quinn College. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM.
