WARRENSBURG, Mo. — Missouri Southern soccer was defeated by No. 18-ranked Central Missouri, 6-0, Friday evening at the South Recreation Complex.
MSSU now holds a record of 2-11-3 overall and 0-8-2 in MIAA conference play. UCM now stands at 10-3-4 overall with a 7-1-3 record in conference action.
Goalkeeper
Bella Smith recorded eight saves, facing 19 shots, to lead the Lions defensively.
Nathalia Luiz contributed offensively with three shots, testing the opposing goalkeeper.
Preslee Zeigler registered one shot on goal, providing a crucial attempt for the team.
Presley Whitmire also made an impact with a shot on goal, adding to the offensive efforts during the match.
The first half began with Missouri Southern on the attack as Luiz attempted an early shot in the second minute. However, UCM quickly took advantage with Mikayla Ernst scoring in the third minute to take the lead. The Lions responded with efforts from Zeigler and Whitmire, both saved by UCM's goalkeeper, Kristen Wright.
UCM extended its lead with a goal from Jada Dibbini in the 22nd minute. Smith made crucial saves to deny further attempts from the Jennies, including shots from Hadley Lockhart and Maryn Clement. Despite defensive efforts, Southern trailed 2-0 at the end of the first period.
The second half opened with Smith making a crucial save against Ava Lunders' attempt, maintaining the scoreline briefly. However, the Jennies capitalized on early momentum with Coryn Jespersen scoring in the 48th minute, followed by Aspen Patterson's goal two minutes later, extending their lead to 4-0.
MSSU attempted to counter with Luiz and
Olivia Hermann both taking shots, though neither found the target. UCM continued to press, adding a goal in the 61st minute through Rylie Hughes. Smith remained active, making several saves, but the Jennies scored again in the 88th minute, sealing a 6-0 result.
The Lions next head to Newman University for MSSU's road finale on Sunday. First kick is set for 1 p.m., CT in Wichita, Kansas.
