The Missouri State women's soccer team opened exhibition play at Plaster Field this evening and fell to a feisty Central Missouri squad, 1-0. The Bears had to juggle the lineup just before kickoff when word of one of their starters would be unable to go.
"We had a lot of girls playing out of position tonight," said head coach Rob Brewer following the match. "We got to look at some of these girls in different positions, places they may not play during the season."
The Bears were outshot 12-7, but had the edge in shots on goal, 3-2. Central Missouri put pressure on the Bears defense all match, gaining eight corner kicks during the match.
The Jennies got their goal in the 55th minute off of a free kick from about 25 yards out. Jenna Stones would loft the free kick into the box and it just eluded Missouri State sophomore keeper Chelsea Voet's outstretched hand into the upper left corner. Central Missouri would only garner one other shot on goal in the match, coming in the final minute of play, but it was cleared off the line by Bears defender Nia Williams.
Freshman midfielder Tiffany Laughlin had a strong showing for Missouri State. She registered three shots, including one on net, after coming off the bench. Fellow freshmen Brooke Williams and Adrianne Kalogerou each tallied a shot in the match.
Jessica Teahan started and played the first half for the Bears. She did not face a shot on goal while between the pipes. Voet played the second half and absorbed the tough loss for Missouri State.
"We are six days into training," continued Brewer. "It was good to see some other competition and we now know what kinds of things to work on moving forward. Brooke (Williams) and Tiffany (Laughlin) had a good game tonight, positive signs as we work towards the regular season."
The Bears wrap up exhibition play at Plaster Field on Thursday, August 19, against cross-town foe Drury at 6:00 p.m. Missouri State will open the regular season next Sunday, August 22 at North Texas with a 1:00 p.m. The regular season home opener is slated for Friday, August 27, versus UALR at 7:00 p.m.
