WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue opened the 2026 season with a 1–1 draw against Evansville on Thursday morning at Folk Field.
Despite holding a 70%–30% advantage in possession, outshooting Evansville, 31–2 and earning 13 corner kicks to the Purple Aces' one, the Boilers were unable to find the winning goal.
Zoe Miles scored Purdue's lone goal in the 13th minute, marking the first goal of the season, and the first of her career, giving the Boilers a 1–0 early lead.
Purdue continued to pressure Evansville throughout the opening half, finishing the period with 15 shots and seven corner kicks. Evansville goalkeeper Brianna Chirpich made four saves to keep the deficit at one heading into halftime.
The Purple Aces responded to open the second half when Brooklyn Robinson scored in the 47th minute to level the match at 1–1.
Purdue continued to create opportunities after the equalizer, recording 16 shots in the second half. The Boilers put five shots on target during the final 45 minutes, but Chirpich made five additional saves to keep the match level.
Purdue's offensive pressure was led by Anderson, who recorded eight shots, including two on target. Megan Santa Cruz added five shots, while Cherry Yu registered five shots with three on frame. Miles finished with three shots, including one on target and Purdue's lone goal.
Purdue will return to Folk Field on Sunday, Aug. 16 for a 1:00 p.m. est kick against Purdue Fort Wayne.
For more on the Purdue soccer team, visit PurdueSports.com/Soccer and follow and connect with the Boilermakers at @PurdueSoccer on Twitter/X, Instagram and Facebook.