SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Michelle Auer scored the lone goal for SIUE women's soccer in a 3-1 loss to Missouri State.

"Missouri State played like a team that was hungry for a win, and we weren't able to match that," said Head Coach Derek Burton.  "Consistency is still part of our learning process."

Auer opened the game with a goal in the first 24 seconds of play. The goal marks her third on the season. Katye Skrivan assisted the play.

"Michelle has a scorer's mentality and she continues to be in the right place at the right time," said Burton.

The Bears answered the goal with three of their own, scoring two in the first half and one in the second half.

The Cougars were outshot by the Bears 8-5. Goalkeeper Jennifer Pelley recorded one save on the game.

SIUE opens up their conference schedule Sunday, Sept. 28 against Eastern Illinois at Korte Stadium.