KOKOMO, Ind. - The IU Kokomo women's soccer team shut-out WVU Tech 6-0 Saturday night in the River States Conference Quarterfinals, advancing to Wednesday night's Semifinal showdown under the lights at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Senior goal-scoring leader Keely Hoopingarner recorded a hat-trick in the win.

The Cougars of IU Kokomo looked to be in control from the early minutes on, taking an early lead in the 13th minute on Hoopingarner's first of three goals on the evening.

IU Kokomo would add on less than 10 minutes later, as Hoopingarner assisted junior Kelsi Hoot who converted for a 2-0 lead. The Cougars did score one more first-half goal, as Elaina Page sent a shot over the goalie's head and into the back of the net from distance for a comfortable 3-0 halftime lead.

WVU Tech did well to keep IU Kokomo scoreless for the opening 25 minutes of the second half, but the offensive pressure from the Cougars eventually paid off. Hoopingarner scored her 14th goal of the season in the 70th minute before completing the hat-trick with a goal less than two minutes later.

In what was arguably the prettiest goal of the night, Liz Sandoval sent a corner into the box that found the head of Mackenzie Gibbons, who scored her sixth goal of the season to complete the scoring and give IUK a 6-0 cushion with just two minutes to play. The assist was Sandoval's first of the year. 

The IU Kokomo defense was dominant in the win, continuing to showcase their strong form seen for much of the season. 

Sophomores Sydney Miller and Kailee Moore combined on the shut-out, as Miller played the opening 45 minutes while Moore was in net for the second half.

The Cougars will continue their quest for a second-consecutive River States Conference Championship Wednesday night, as they will host Shawnee State in the RSC Semifinals. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the IU Kokomo Cougars, fans can visit IUKCougars.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Cougar news by following @IUKAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.