COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU women's soccer opened Appalachian Athletic Conference play with a 1-0 loss to Spartanburg Methodist College on Wednesday evening at Sessions Field.
The Rams (1-1-2, 0-1 AAC) controlled much of the attacking pressure, outshooting SMC 13-8 and holding a 7-2 advantage in corner kicks. CIU put seven shots on goal, but Spartanburg Methodist goalkeeper Ava Wilson turned away all seven attempts.
The Pioneers broke through in the 26th minute when Kamari Johnson scored off an assist from Kayleigh Purdy to give SMC a 1-0 advantage. The goal proved to be the only scoring of the match.
CIU generated several opportunities to equalize. Lohrane Boaventura led the Rams with four shots, including two on goal, while Lucy Jackson recorded three shots with two on frame. Lily Jackson, Sydney Thoman and Lily Vengelis also put attempts on target.
The Rams continued to press in the second half, forcing Wilson into three saves, including stops on Lily Vengelis and Lily Jackson in quick succession early in the period and another on Boaventura in the 75th minute.
CIU returns to AAC action Saturday when the Rams travel to Barbourville, Kentucky, to face Union Commonwealth University.
