Cowgirls Draw Sam Houston 1-1 In Season Opener

Athletes in any sport will talk about the importance of making a statement early. Oklahoma State women’s soccer’s statement was best described as unlucky on Wednesday night at Neal Patterson Stadium. The Cowgirls tied Sam Houston 1-1 in the opener of the 2026 season.

Oklahoma State was the aggressor early in the game. Keaton Mitchell had the first shot on goal two minutes into the game which led to a corner kick. The first breakthrough came 10 minutes later.

Emmy Hedden’s shot was saved but not controlled by Bearkat keeper Hannah Stipp. The rebound fell to senior Gracie Bindbeutel who found the net.

“That was definitely a pleasant surprise,” Bindbeutel said. “It meant a lot because I know how much work I put into everything.”

The first half also saw the regular-season return of Ellie Geoffroy who was recently given an extra year of eligibility.

“It’s great to have Ellie on and off the field,” coach Colin Carmichael said. “She’s a really good player and amazing teammate and person to have around. It’s been an interesting summer but it’s fortunate that Ellie still gets to do what she loves.”

A key to the Cowgirls aggression was a change to a four-player diamond formation in the midfield, something which was a new idea for Carmichael and his staff.

“We wanted our top three midfielders out there together but they all play a similar position,” Carmichael said. “It was hard for them because they have to cover a lot of ground but there were good moments and we did some good things out of that shape.”

Sam Houston equalized in the 39th minute on a free kick from Gabrielle Gipson. It was the first shot on goal for the Bearkats in the game.

Oklahoma State showcased much of its depth in the game as well with several players rotating in and out to continue to try to generate chances. A total of 18 Cowgirls saw minutes in the game.

The Cowgirls outshot the Bearkats 8-2 in attempts on goal but only found the back of the net once.

Newcomer Sherline King impressed in her Oklahoma State debut. The transfer from Jones college had seven shots with one on goal. She is expected to be a contributor on the offensive end.

“Tonight she created a whole bunch,” Carmichael said. “She has the ability to score and she was a little bit unlucky to not finish a couple, but the keeper did well and maybe on another day one of those goes in and we’re smiling.”

The Cowgirls’ 24 shots was a change from a team last season which struggled to generate opportunities. Wednesday night’s performance was dampened by seven saves made by Stipp.

The Cowgirls are using the early part of the season to continue to fine-tune the rotations and identify playmakers.

“It’s early,” Bindbeutel said. “This is a lot of the girls’ first fall game. So you can’t read too much into it.”