Golden’s quick double hands Virginia its first loss — September 6, 2026

Virginia’s lead lasted into the fourth quarter, but two Sienna Golden goals in 61 seconds turned the Big Ten/ACC Challenge finale into a 2-1 Ohio State victory on Sept. 6.

The fifth-ranked Cavaliers fell to 2-1 after taking a 1-0 lead on Isabella Moore’s unassisted goal at 35:19. Golden equalized at 47:35 and scored again at 48:36, with Emily Barker and Philippa Schipper providing the respective assists.

Virginia had generated early opportunities without breaking through. Six first-half penalty corners produced no goals, and the teams reached halftime scoreless. The Cavaliers also failed to convert a late corner as they chased the equalizer, according to Virginia’s official recap.

The official box score captures the difference between opportunity and finishing. Virginia outshot Ohio State 14-8, including four attempts in each of the middle two quarters. Ohio State took only two shots in the fourth quarter. Golden scored on both.

Avery Alleva made six saves for the Buckeyes, including four in the second period. Virginia’s Nilou Lempers finished with five saves, three of them in the third quarter. Each side put seven shots on goal.

Lauren Sloan led the Cavaliers with four attempts, followed by Mia Abello with three. Caitlin Connell took two shots, and Moore converted her only attempt. The statistical volume never produced the second goal Virginia needed.

The neutral-site loss in Piscataway split Virginia’s Challenge weekend after its win over Rutgers. A game the Cavaliers had led with 15 minutes remaining instead became their first defeat of the season.