KISSIMMEE, Fl.--- The No. 4 Asbury women's soccer team (11-8-3) saw its last push fall short to No. 5 University of Northwestern (NM) (12-6-3), 2-1, in the opening match of pool play at the National Christian College Athletics Association (NCCAA) National Tournament.

Northwestern struck first in the 16th minute when Haley Mersberger found the back of the net, giving the Racers an early 1-0 lead. Mersberger doubled the advantage in the 67th minute, putting Asbury in a two-goal deficit.

AU answered in the 73rd minute as junior biology major Anna Sparks, assisted by freshman Madison Andrews, cut the deficit to 2-1. Asbury applied pressure in the final minutes and generated several scoring chances but could not find the equalizer.

Sophomore goalkeeper Peyton Steiniger recorded eight saves, including key stops in the second half to keep AU within striking distance. Defenders Maggie Perry and Tallulah Lafferty logged 90 minutes, helping slow Northwestern's attack, while Sparks and Hannah Muncie each led Asbury's offense with two shots on goal.

Asbury outshot Northwestern 12-5 in the second half and finished with 16 total shots to Northwestern's 18. AU also recorded five corner kicks compared to Northwestern's eight, while committing just two fouls to Northwestern's four.

* Anna Sparks | 1 G
* Madison Andrews | 1 A
* Peyton Steiniger | 8 SV, 90'
* Maggie Perry, Anna Sparks, Madison Andrews, Tallulah Lafferty | 90'


The Eagles will look to bounce back as they take on Warner University December 2 at 2:30 pm.

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