WVU Tech soccer: Preseason No. 2 Golden Bears host No. 4 Patriots on Saturday to start season

WVU Tech's soccer team is set to face off against University of the Cumberlands, another highly-ranked team, in their season opener on Saturday. The Golden Bears are currently No. 2 in the NAIA preseason Top 25 rankings, following their impressive run last year that ended at the national championship game. They fell short to preseason No. 1 Grand View (Iowa) by a score of 2-1. Now, they will be looking to bounce back and make a strong start to the season.

The University of the Cumberlands, ranked No. 4 in the preseason poll, is a formidable opponent. They have maintained their high ranking throughout the off-season, solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the nation. This matchup will be a chance for both teams to settle old scores, as the Golden Bears defeated the Patriots in a 4-2 win last year, propelling them into the NAIA Top 25.

Trailing the Golden Bears is Rio Grande, currently ranked No. 24 in the preseason rankings. The Cumberlands women's team also kicks off their season on Saturday, facing off against Milligan University at 7 p.m. The women's team had been expected to win the conference championship, having finished as runners-up in the RSC Tournament.