MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The William Carey women's soccer team fell 1-0 to Life University in the Southern States Athletic Conference Championship game Saturday afternoon at the Emory Folmar YMCA Complex.
The championship match was a defensive battle from the opening whistle. Life held the advantage in first-half opportunities, putting four shots on goal while the Lady Crusaders were unable to record a shot on frame.
The Running Eagles broke through in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a defensive miscue to score what proved to be the match's lone goal. Despite the setback, the Carey defense regrouped and prevented Life from extending its lead for the remainder of the half.
Both teams continued to limit scoring chances after the opening goal. William Carey weathered a late first-half push from Life to keep the deficit at 1-0 heading into halftime.
The defensive intensity remained high throughout the second half as neither side was able to create many clear scoring opportunities. The Lady Crusaders increased their offensive pressure after the break, recording four shots on goal, but could not find the equalizer. Life's defense stood firm down the stretch to secure the 1-0 victory.
William Carey now turns its attention to the NAIA National Championship. The Lady Crusaders will compete in the first and second rounds of the national tournament, which will be held at campus sites Nov. 19-21.
