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MACOMB, Ill.  – Western Illinois erased an early Bears' lead, scoring goals in both periods to down Missouri State, 2-1, in the 2019 women's soccer season opener for both teams at John MacKenzie Alumni Field in Macomb, Ill.
 
Senior forward Ashley Coonfield immediately made an impact for head coach Rob Brewer's squad, slipping one past the Leathernecks with the help of Anna Durnin to give MSU the 1-0 edge in the opening minutes.
 
Multiple Western Illinois shot opportunities in the first ultimately tied the game as Amy Andrews found the net for the opposing side in the 23^rd minute. Both squads remained deadlocked 1-1 heading into the break.
 
Western Illinois later capitalized on a second-half shot attempt from Bridget Schuler in the 62^nd minute to score the go-ahead goal and take the 2-1 advantage.
 
Defense dominated in the second as both squads combined for just three shots. Coonfield and Durnin each posted two shots apiece to pace MSU offensively.
 
"Tight game between two talented squads tonight," said Brewer. "Almost all of our players saw the field and they played well despite some tough conditions."
 
The Bears continue their road swing, facing Arkansas State on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 1 p.m.
 
For all the latest information on the Missouri State women's soccer team visit MissouriStateBears.com or follow @MSUBearsWSoccer on Twitter.