Razorbacks win game ended by lightning

A soccer ball sits on the field during a game between Arkansas and Arkansas State on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2022, in Fayetteville.

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas defeated Western Michigan 3-0 on Thursday in a game that ended early due to thunderstorms. 

The Razorbacks (3-1) scored all of their goals in the first half and won their third consecutive game. Arkansas has outscored its opponents 13-2 since a season-opening loss at Saint Louis. 

Ainsley Erzen scored the game’s first goal 39 seconds after kickoff to give the Razorbacks a 1-0 lead. Jessica De Filippo scored in the 15th minute and Bea Franklin scored in the 36th to extend Arkansas’ advantage to 3-0 by halftime. 

Ava Tankersley and Emilee Hauser were credited with assists on the goals by Erzen and Franklin, respectively. Tankersley has four assists this season, three more than any other player on the team.

The game was suspended twice due to lightning. The first delay lasted for about 30 minutes. Following a resumption of play at 8:55 p.m., the teams played for about 15 minutes longer until another delay ended the game in the 72nd minute. 

NCAA rules state a game result can be ruled official after 70 minutes are complete. 

Western Michigan fell to 0-3-1. The Broncos have been outscored 11-1 this season.

Arkansas is scheduled to host Michigan State on Sunday at 1 p.m.