ASHLAND, Ohio – The Kentucky Wesleyan College women's soccer team clashed with Great Midwest front-runner, Ashland University on Wednesday evening. The Eagles were pushed to the limit as the Panthers suffered a 2-0 loss.
The Panthers (2-7, 1-5 GMAC) riding a wave of momentum after a 2-0 shutout of Malone on Saturday looked to continue its upward tick with an upset of the Eagles. Ashland did all their damage early-on, scoring twice in the first 25 minutes.
The Eagles (7-3, 5-1) scored the first goal of the match in the 16
th minute. Six minutes later Dani Hicks tallied her third goal of the season to extend the Eagles lead to 2-0. The Panthers settled in and pulled together in the second period.
Facing a 2-0 deficit at the break, the Panthers aggressively worked to get scoring opportunities on the Ashland goal.
Natalie Hinchcliffe and
Ashlyn Payton saw both their shot attempts sail high in the 51
st and 53
rd minute respectively.
In the 64
th minute
Bree Owen looked to cut the Ashland lead in half, but AU keeper Brianna Rogers protected the bottom left corner of the net to maintain a two goal lead. The Panthers took four shots in the second half, one on goal.
Elizabeth Burns faced eight shots on goals, making six saves.
Natalie Hinchcliffe and Owen each recorded two shots on the night.
The Panthers will host Lake Erie College on Saturday afternoon as Great Midwest action continues. The match at Panther Field is scheduled for 1 PM.
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