Kent State women’s soccer team equaled its largest margin of victory in school history in Thursday’s 6-0 win over Canisius.

But the Flashes still have work to do, coach Rob Marinaro said. 

“We created some opportunities and had some individual production in the first half, as an entire unit, but it could have been a lot better,” Marinaro said. “We’re going to have to play better as a team as we continue to battle against some stronger opponents.” 

KSU is 3-1 on the season while Canisius falls to 0-3-2. 

Kent State’s six goals is the second-highest number KSU has ever scored in a game. The Flashes scored seven times in wins in 2010 and 2015. They posted 6-0 shutouts twice before and beat Buffalo 7-1 in 2010.

Redshirt senior defender Karly Hellstrom scored KSU’s first goal nine minutes into the game, and sophomore forward Callie Cunningham, redshirt sophomore forward Lauryn Arruda and sophomore defender Dalaney Ranallo added first-half goals.

Freshman forward Anna Memija and freshman midfielder Cadence Smyth scored in the second half. Arruda, freshman midfielder Siena Stambolich, redshirt senior forward Cameron Shedenhelm and sophomore midfielder Luca Ralph had assists.

“Coming out and scoring six goals and being productive on the offensive side of the ball was really important to us,” Marinaro said. “It took us a little bit to get into the game, but overall we were pleased with our offensive production.” 

KSU scored on six of its 13 shots, and its defense allowed only two shots on goal.

“The back four limited their opportunities and defended well,” Marinaro said. “Defensively, we played well, but I think we need to possess the ball a lot better and a lot quicker.” 

The Flashes’ 3-1 start is their best since 2016, when the team lost its first game, then won 10 straight. That team finished 15-3-2, making the NCAA tournament. 

Marinaro didn’t want to compare the teams. 

“This team is much younger,” Marinaro said. “We’re going to take it a whole lot slower on a daily basis.”

“I’m pretty pleased. They’re coming together as a team. Their attitudes, their effort is really good. We’re just going to have to get better every game.” 

The Flashes have the third-best record in the Mid-American Conference behind Ohio (3-0) and Toledo (3-0-2). They lead the MAC in goals per game at 3.0. 

Kent State plays at Northwestern (1-3) Sunday afternoon.

Cole Oswald is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].