PULASKI, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern women's soccer team fell to No. 11 Indiana Wesleyan, 4-0, on Saturday night at Grissom Pitch. The Firehawks move to 1-1 on the season, while the Wildcats remain unbeaten at 4-0.
Indiana Wesleyan scored twice in the opening five minutes to take an early advantage. The Wildcats found the opening goal in the fifth minute before converting a penalty kick on a closely contested call moments later to build a 2-0 lead.
Despite the early deficit, UT Southern responded with an aggressive offensive effort throughout the remainder of the contest. The Firehawks outshot the nationally ranked Wildcats 16-14 and held a 5-3 advantage in corner kicks. UT Southern generated several quality scoring chances, including a first-half attempt by Ellie Walker that struck the post and another by Luella Cramer that rattled the woodwork in the 74th minute. The Firehawks put seven shots on goal but were unable to break through against the Indiana Wesleyan defense.
The Firehawks continued to create opportunities before halftime as Lauren Mercer, Cramer, and Walker each generated dangerous chances in the attacking third. Indiana Wesleyan goalkeeper Avery Sluss turned away multiple attempts to keep the visitors in front heading into the break.
Indiana Wesleyan extended its lead in the 54th minute before adding a late goal in the 86th minute to secure the victory.
Cramer led the Firehawks offensively with six shots, including three on goal. Walker added three shots, while Riho Masuya recorded two shots on target. Mercer finished with two attempts, and Osiris Rodriguez added a shot on goal.
Freshman goalkeeper Sam De Gier recorded four saves in net for UT Southern, including three stops in the second half.
The Firehawks will look to bounce back next Saturday, Sept. 5, when they host Eastern Oregon at Grissom Pitch. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
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