COLUMBUS, Ind. — The Midway University women's soccer team suffered its second consecutive River States Conference (RSC) loss Saturday afternoon, falling 2-0 to Indiana University Columbus at NexusPark.
The Crimson Pride scored twice in the opening half before holding the Eagles scoreless over the final 45 minutes to secure the conference victory.
Midway falls to 3-6-0 overall and 1-2-0 in RSC play, while IU Columbus improves to 6-4-1 overall and 1-2-0 in conference action.
The Crimson Pride applied offensive pressure early, recording five shots in the opening 15 minutes before Midway goalkeeper Lilly Riordan made her first save of the afternoon at the 16-minute mark.
The Eagles generated their first scoring opportunity less than a minute later when Sadie Pollock sent a shot wide of the goal at the 16:48 mark.
Cate Burch followed with another attempt at the 18:24 mark, but her shot sailed high as Midway looked to break the scoreless tie.
IU Columbus eventually broke through in the 27th minute when Madison Merritt scored her first goal of the season at the 26:13 mark, giving the Crimson Pride a 1-0 advantage.
Just over seven minutes later, IU Columbus doubled its lead.
Madelyn McIntosh found the back of the net at the 33:17 mark off an assist from Jessica Finfera. The goal was McIntosh's first of the season and gave the Crimson Pride a 2-0 lead heading into halftime.
IU Columbus held a 10-2 advantage in shots through the opening 45 minutes, while Midway was unable to put either of its attempts on goal.
The Eagles looked to respond after halftime, but the Crimson Pride continued to control the offensive opportunities.
Midway's defense held IU Columbus scoreless throughout the second half despite facing nine additional shots.
Riordan helped keep the Eagles within striking distance, making five second-half saves as IU Columbus searched for another goal.
Midway was limited to one shot in the final 45 minutes, and the Crimson Pride preserved their two-goal advantage to secure the victory.
Burch led Midway offensively with two shots, while Pollock recorded the Eagles' other attempt.
Riordan played all 90 minutes in goal for the Eagles, recording five saves.
IU Columbus finished with a 19-3 advantage in total shots, including an 8-0 edge in shots on goal. The Crimson Pride also held a 6-2 advantage in corner kicks.
McIntosh led IU Columbus with five shots, including three on goal, while Finfera added four attempts and an assist.
The loss marked Midway's second consecutive shutout defeat after falling to IU East on Thursday afternoon.
UP NEXT
Midway will host the #19 team in the nation, Lindsey Wilson, on Tuesday night before IU Kokomo comes to town on Thursday.
About Midway University Athletics
Midway University competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and its 29 athletic teams are part of the River States Conference, Mid-South Conference, Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association and USA Archery. For more information about Midway University Athletics, please visit www.gomidwayeagles.com or contact Tyler Beck at 859-846-5366.
