AMES, Iowa  -  After a stellar defensive effort through much of the contest, SIUE women's soccer surrendered a goal in the 76th minute that proved to be the decisive strike and sent the Cougars home with a 1-0 defeat at Iowa State.

The bend-don't-break mentality of the Cougar defense proved to once again keep SIUE in the match, as 21 of Iowa State's 22 shots failed to find the back of the net. Leading the Cougar defensive effort was Bella Henderson, who recorded a season-high seven saves in the contest. Jensen Schoch, who started in goal for the opening 45 minutes, added a pair of saves to SIUE's total. The SIUE offense could not find their footing, only recording two total shots. Maria Haro registered the Cougars' lone shot on goal of the match, forcing the Cyclone keeper to make an impressive save in the opening minute of play.

"The team mentality to battle was there today," said SIUE Head Coach Derek Burton following Sunday's match. "It was an immense physical challenge - and I'm proud of that coming off a taxing game Friday (at Drake), to then face off against a quality opponent that had a full week to prepare for us. As coaches, we couldn't ask for much more commitment."

The Cougars, who drop to 1-3 on the young season, will welcome SIU Carbondale (0-3-1) to Korte Stadium for a Thursday night fixture. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.

"Our next steps are in the area of decision making and recognizing specific moments in games," added Burton. "We'll get there. We'll get back to work for Thursday's match."