JOPLIN, Mo. — Missouri Southern (2-4-3, 0-1-2) fell 3-0 to Northeastern State (6-2-1, 2-1-1) Friday night at Hal Bodon Field, with NSU netting two first-half goals in the conference matchup.
MSSU holds a 2-4-3 overall record and a 0-1-2 mark in conference play. Northeastern State stands at 6-2-1 overall and 2-1-1 in conference competition.
Bella Smith recorded five saves in goal for Missouri Southern State during her 90 minutes of play.
Presley Whitmire led the team's offensive efforts with four shots, two of which were on goal.
Jilliana Reese contributed with two shots, adding pressure to the opposing defense.
Daniela Marquez also managed to place two shots, one of which was on target.
The first half began with the Lions holding firm against early pressure from Northeastern State, as Smith made a key save in the opening minutes. Despite an early offside call against the hosts, Northeastern State missed a penalty kick opportunity, keeping the game level until Hannah Anderson scored in the ninth minute. MSSU responded with efforts from
Preslee Zeigler and
Talia Sanders, but Rebecca Partyka in goal for Northeastern State was up to the task. As the half progressed, the home team continued to push forward, highlighted by a shot from
Olivia Hermann that narrowly missed. However, Northeastern State extended their lead with a goal from Brooke Dodd in the 38th minute. The half closed with the Lions trailing 2-0, despite several attempts to break through.
The second half began with MSSU asserting pressure early, as Sanders and Marquez both attempted shots within the opening minutes.
Hailey Peters also managed a shot that went just over the top left corner, illustrating the team's attacking intent. Despite several attempts, including a close-range effort saved by Northeastern State's goalkeeper Partyka, the Lions were unable to find the back of the net. Northeastern State capitalized on a scoring opportunity in the 81st minute when Jaclyn Barritt scored, extending the Riverhawks' lead. Smith recorded a crucial save to keep the score from widening further, while Whitmire continued to threaten with multiple shots on target. The half closed with Mo. Southern St. trailing 3-0, unable to convert their chances into goals.
MSSU next heads to Claremore, Oklahoma, to face Rogers State Sunday in MIAA action. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m., CT.
