Northwest Missouri State Athletics

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University women's soccer team (6-3-0, 3-1-0) fell to the University of Central Missouri (6-2-3, 3-0-2) by a score of 2-1 on Friday at South Recreation Complex, with UCM securing both goals in the first half.
 
The first half began with Northwest pushing forward early, as Ximena Arnau registered the first shot of the match. Lily Ellis played a crucial role in goal, making several key saves, including a save against Coryn Jespersen's attempt in the 7th minute. Despite the strong defensive efforts, UCM broke through in the 10th minute with a goal from Mackenzie Smith, assisted by Kate Ricker and Aspen Patterson, putting the Jennies in the lead.
 
Northwest continued to create opportunities, with Abby Overbay's shot in the 13th minute forcing a save from UCM's goalkeeper Kristen Wright. However, the home side doubled their lead in the 32nd minute with a goal by Mikayla Ernst, assisted by Alexandra Hofbauer. The half closed with Northwest Mo. St. trailing 2-0, despite several attempts to cut the deficit.
 
The second half began with Northwest Mo. St. maintaining pressure, highlighted by a shot from Addy Armstrong that was saved at the 49th minute. The Jennies responded with multiple corner kicks and shots, testing the Northwest Mo. St. defense, including a save by Ellis.
 
Northwest continued to push forward, with Brooke Bellehumeur's shot saved in the 70th minute. The breakthrough came in the 83rd minute when freshman Lilly Gibler scored, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. Despite late fouls and an offside against UCM, the half concluded with Northwest Mo. St. trailing 2-1.
 
Ellis recorded five saves over 90 minutes while facing 12 shots. Freshman Izzy Miller led the team with one shot, which was on target. Armstrong also contributed with one shot on goal. Gibler scored the team's only goal. 
 
Up Next: 
Northwest will play again on Sunday in Claremore, Okla. against Rogers State University (1-4-4, 1-2-1).