CARBONDALE, Ill. – Belmont women's soccer opened Missouri Valley Conference play on the road Friday night, falling 2-1 to Southern Illinois at Saluki Stadium. The Bruins moved to 2-3-4 (0-1 MVC) on the season.
After withstanding early pressure, Belmont struck back in the 42nd minute when Maggie Gawrych netted her first goal of the season, finishing a sequence assisted by Olivia Walker and Megan Miller. The goal leveled the match at 1-1 going into halftime after SIU had opened the scoring in the 30th minute.
In the second half, Southern Illinois capitalized in the 66th minute, regaining the lead on a finish from Sophia Schlicklin. Despite several attacking efforts, including shots from Reagan Ross and Laken Whittington, Belmont was unable to find an equalizer.
What's Bruin
- Graduate goalkeeper Sydney Jones was a standout, recording eight saves against 21 Saluki shots to keep the Bruins within striking distance throughout the contest.
- Belmont finished the match with seven total shots, three on target, while SIU generated consistent offensive pressure with 21 shots and seven corner kicks.Â
- Gawrych's goal accounted for the 6th different Bruin to score this season showcasing versatility in the offensive attack.
Up Next
- The Bruins return to action against Drake at 6:30 from E.S. Rose Park, looking to bounce back and build momentum in MVC play.
Follow Belmont women's soccer on social media - @BelmontWSoccer on Twitter, @belmontwsoccer on Instagram and @belmontWsoccer on Facebook - for complete coverage of the Bruins. Stay up to date with all of Belmont's athletic programs via the official app of the Belmont Bruins, available both in the Apple App Store and on Google Play.
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