Women's Soccer Falls in Opener

(FULTON, Mo., Sept. 2) - The William Woods University women’s soccer team lost its home opener to visiting Avila University on Wednesday night at Firley Field. The Owls fell 3-2 in double overtime.

Avila took a 1-0 lead into the half on a goal from senior Rachelle Luster (Lenexa, Kans.).

In the second half, William Woods tied the game on a goal from sophomore Kelsey Evans (Troy, Ill.). AU would retake the lead on a goal from Emilee Bilyeu (Chesterfield, Mo.).

With five minutes remaining in regulation, WWU sophomore Anne Weaver (St. Charles, Mo.) tied the match on a penalty kick.

After one scoreless overtime period, William Woods committed an own-goal with a few minutes remaining in the second overtime period to give Avila the victory.

WWU freshman goalkeeper Anna Hatfield (DeSoto, Ill.) recorded 15 saves in the loss.

Avila University improves to 1-1 on the season. William Woods falls to 0-1 on the year. The Owls will return to action on Saturday, September 5th at Missouri Valley College.