ELMHURST, IL – Beloit College's women's soccer team faced a tough challenge this evening, falling 3-0 to Elmhurst at Langhorst Field. Despite the final score, the Buccaneers showed flashes of defensive grit and offensive intent, particularly in the first half.
The match saw Elmhurst (8-1-1, 0-0-0 CCIW) dominate the shot count, but the Buccaneers (1-6-1, 0-0-0 MWC) goalkeeping and defensive efforts kept them in the game for extended periods.
From the whistle, the Buccaneers' starting goalkeeper, Sophia Dietz (Schaumburg, IL), was immediately put to the test, playing the entire first half and making crucial saves. Her performance was a highlight for the Buccaneers, facing numerous shots and denying several Elmhurst opportunities. In the second half, Kaya Williams (Cincinnati, OH) took over in goal, continuing the team's efforts to thwart the Bluejays' attack.
Offensively, Beloit managed 6 total shots throughout the match, with 3 on target. Meara Plum (Wentzville, MO), Annie Lloyd (Orland Park, IL), Grace Christos (Valporariso, IN), and Sarah Connors (Paso Robles, CA) each registered shots, with Plum's early attempt just wide of the goal and Christos's shot in the final minute of the first half requiring a save from Elmhurst's keeper. While the Buccaneers were unable to find the back of the net, their determination to create chances was evident.
A penalty kick goal from Elmhurst in the 32nd minute broke the deadlock, giving the Bluejays a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw Elmhurst extend their lead with goals in the 69th minute and 75th minute. Despite the growing deficit, Beloit continued to fight, making substitutions to introduce fresh legs and maintain defensive pressure.
Key players for Beloit included Connors, who played the full 90 minutes and had a shot on goal, and defenders Meah Mora (Caldwell, ID) and Zyana Turcios (Elmwood Park, Ill.) who anchored the backline for much of the game.
This game marks the final tune up before Midwest Conference play kicks off on Saturday. The Bucs will head to Monmouth, Illinois for an 11 am kick off against the Fighting Scots.
