Box Score BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – In their season opener, SIUE women's soccer fell to a 2-0 defeat to No. 12 West Virginia in the first game of Indiana's Hoosier Classic.
"We knew going in that they are a really talented team and a lot of people have them as a Final Four team," SIUE Head Coach Derek Burton said of the Mountaineers. "That being said, we knew we had to be defensive-minded. All-in-all, we had a successful game."
The Cougars were able to hold the Mountaineers scoreless until the 20th minute, when Nia Gordon recorded her first goal of the season against the SIUE defense.
West Virginia struck again in the 45th minute with a goal from Hannah Abraham.
SIUE closed the half trailing 2-0 with one shot coming from defender Jorie Clawson.
The Cougars were able to shut out West Virginia in the second half, but could only record one shot from Katye Skrivan.
"What I'm asking of the team right now is to continue to get better," said Burton. "We need to learn from this game and be better next game. I expect the intensity, grit, and determination that we saw tonight to still be there."
Cougar goalkeeper Jennifer Pelley ended the game with two saves.
The Cougars return to action Sunday in the second game of the Hoosier Classic. They will face host Indiana in a 3:30 p.m. CT match.
"I am pleased with our effort and execution," said Burton. "Our performance can get better. Sunday will be our next opportunity and our players will be ready."
