COLUMBIA, S.C. — A second-half penalty kick proved decisive as Columbia International University women's soccer fell 1-0 to No. 8 Truett McConnell on Wednesday night in Appalachian Athletic Conference play.
The Rams dropped to 6-3-4 overall and 4-3-4 in the AAC, while Truett McConnell improved to 12-1-1 and remained unbeaten in conference play at 9-0.
CIU kept the Bears off the scoreboard through the opening 45 minutes, limiting the visitors to five shots, none on target. Lauren Jackson recorded an early blocked attempt, while Sydney Thoman tested the goalkeeper in the 29th minute as the teams entered halftime scoreless.
Truett McConnell increased its pressure after the break, but goalkeeper Hailey Resetar helped keep the Rams within reach. Resetar finished with seven saves, all in the second half.
The Bears broke through in the 56th minute, converting a penalty kick at the 55:26 mark for the match's only goal. Truett McConnell was reduced to 10 players after a second yellow card in the 60th minute, but CIU was unable to find an equalizer.
CIU travels to Milligan on Saturday, Oct. 17, for a 2 p.m. kickoff.
