The Ashland University women's soccer team nabbed a lead in the first half, but the Eagles were not able to hang on as host Charleston (W.Va.) came away with a 2-1 win on Friday (Sept. 22) afternoon.
The Eagles (2-3-1) dominated play in the early going, earning six corner kicks and taking six shots in the first 25 minutes. Charleston (3-2-3) was able to withstand that early barrage, but the Eagles finally broke through in the 32nd minute when freshman Hillary Mihalik scored her first career goal.
On the Golden Eagles' second shot of the game, Alana Mikulis was able to equalize in the 40th minute.
Ashland held a 7-2 advantage in shots in the first half and wound up winning that battle, 16-5, for the game. AU also led in corner kicks, 7-1.
Against the run of play, Lyndsey Thompson scored the go-ahead goal for UC in the 74th minute.
The Eagles had four shots in the final five minutes, but they were not able to extend the game into overtime. Last season, Ashland and Charleston played to a 1-1 draw at Ferguson Field.
Senior Morgan Bittengle led the Eagles in shots with six and freshman Abby Lampe stopped two shots in goal.
The Eagles will open GLIAC play on Sunday (Sept. 24) as they travel to Tiffin for a noon kickoff.
AU
WSOC/BB