UTEP Takes Care of Texas Southern

By Kevin Bazar

@SSN_UTEP

Opening Remarks

After an injury and lightning delay, UTEP Soccer secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Texas Southern on Sunday night, earning their first win of the 2025 season at home. This decisive performance was exactly what UTEP needed before embarking on a two-game road trip in California next week. The Miners excelled across the board: their attacking front overwhelmed Texas Southern’s defenders, the backline stifled the Tigers’ forwards, and freshman goalkeeper Savanah Finley earned her first collegiate clean sheet. This squad clearly put Thursday’s loss to ACU behind them, charging forward with focus and determination.

UTEP’s young and hungry roster was on full display, proving their potential as a dangerous team. During pregame warmups, their intensity and commitment to securing a home win were palpable. As any sports fan knows, the first win of the season is often the toughest, and the Miners achieved it with an offensive and defensive masterclass. Veterans also played a pivotal role. Anita Quintero scored twice (20’ and 60’), outpacing nearly every defender, while Eve Barry added a goal (43’), dominating in the Tigers’ goalbox. The entire roster was in sync, executing a cohesive game plan from start to finish.

Kaila Hudson makes a pass to Olivia Roskos (Photo by UTEP Athletics)

Young Talent Shines

When newcomers take over a game, it’s a sign of a bright future, and UTEP’s freshmen delivered. True freshman forward Zeta Mcdannels from Frenship HS in Lubbock was a standout, connecting passes, outrunning defenders, and taking five smart, balanced shots. Though she didn’t score, her speed and shooting ability put Texas Southern’s defense on edge. Her potential as a star forward is undeniable.

Former Del Valle HS standout Yesenia Cisneros also made her mark, recording her first collegiate goal and assist in just her second game. She terrorized defenders and created space for teammates with long passes. With her twin sister, Darmaris, also a forward on the roster, it will be exciting to see if they can recreate their high school chemistry on the collegiate pitch.

Freshman goalkeeper Savanah Finley, standing at 6’0, secured her first collegiate clean sheet—the first by a UTEP freshman since Luisa Palmen in 2021. Her powerful goal kicks and command of the box evoke memories of USWNT legend Hope Solo. For a freshman to anchor the defense like a seasoned veteran is remarkable, signaling a bright future for this program.

Ashlee Mora goes up for the ball against Lilane Clase Baez (Photo by UTEP Athletics)

Closing Statements

Everything clicked for UTEP against Texas Southern. From their relentless attack to their stingy defense, the Miners dominated, scoring four goals—the most since their 2018 win over New Mexico State—and securing their largest margin of victory since a 5-0 rout of Southern Miss in 2016. This was a performance to celebrate. While losses sting, it’s how a team responds that matters, and UTEP bounced back emphatically. The Miners head to California next week to face UC Riverside on Thursday at 8:30 PM MT (live stats only) and Cal State Fullerton on Sunday at 6:00 PM MT (televised on ESPN+). Follow @SSN_UTEP on X for updates on a potential live stream for Thursday’s match.