The Neosho County women’s soccer team faced its first road trip of the 2026 season this weekend, competing in back-to-back matches against Western Iowa Tech and Central Community College.
The Panthers opened the weekend Thursday afternoon in Sioux City, Iowa, against Western Iowa Tech. Neosho battled for 90 minutes but ultimately fell to the Comets, 2-1. The Panthers continued to compete and create opportunities throughout the match, but were unable to find the equalizer in the closing stages.
Neosho then traveled to Columbus, Nebraska, for an early Saturday morning matchup against Central Community College. Playing its second road match in less than 48 hours, the Panthers fell 4-1 to the Raiders.
Despite the results, the weekend provided valuable experience for a young Neosho squad as the Panthers continue to establish their identity early in the season.
“We knew coming into this weekend that we were going to be tested,” said Neosho head women’s soccer coach Eliany Parra. “Playing two road games in a short period of time against quality opponents was a great opportunity for our team to learn and grow. Obviously, the results are not what we wanted, but there were moments in both games where we showed the qualities and competitiveness that we want to see from this group.”
“This team is still learning how to play together and how to handle adversity,” Parra added. “The most important thing now is how we respond. We have to be honest about the areas where we need to improve, get back to work, and continue building confidence and consistency.”
The road trip also gave the Panthers an opportunity to compete against different styles and environments as they prepare for the upcoming conference portion of their schedule.
“We are going to take the lessons from this weekend and use them to make us better,” Parra said. “Our standards do not change because of a result. We will continue to work, compete, and challenge each other every day.”
Neosho currently sits at 1-2-1 overall on the season. The Panthers will return home to continue preparations for their next matchup.
UP NEXT
Neosho will return to action Saturday, Sept. 5, when the Panthers host Allen Community College in their first conference match of the season.
