The Stephens College soccer team battled Harris-Stowe State University in a closely contested matchup Saturday afternoon, ultimately falling 1-0 after a late second-half goal. The loss moves the Stars to 5-4-3 overall and 1-1 in conference play.
Stephens came out strong in the opening half, creating several scoring opportunities and putting pressure on the Harris-Stowe defense. Kylee Kratzer recorded the Stars' first shot on goal in the 12th minute, forcing a save from Harris-Stowe goalkeeper. Just minutes later, Stephens had an opportunity to take the lead with a penalty kick in the 15th minute, but Amaura Austell's attempt went wide.
The Stars continued to push offensively, with Felice Schreuder and Abi Leake each registering shots on goal in the first half. Despite outshooting Harris-Stowe 6-4 through the opening 45 minutes, Stephens was unable to break through, sending both teams into halftime scoreless.
Harris-Stowe gained offensive momentum in the second half, applying consistent pressure on the Stephens defense. Senior goalkeeper Petra Brncova came up with several key saves to keep the match tied, including stops in the 64th and 71st minutes.
The deciding moment came in the 81st minute when Harris-Stowe found the back of the net, giving the Hornets a 1-0 advantage. Stephens was unable to find the equalizer in the closing minutes, allowing Harris-Stowe to secure the narrow victory.
Austell led the Stars offensively with three shot attempts, while Kratzer, Schreuder and Leake each recorded one shot on goal. Brncova played all 90 minutes in goal, finishing with five saves.
Harris-Stowe finished with a 12-6 advantage in total shots and a 6-3 edge in shots on goal. The Hornets also held a 9-1 advantage in corner kicks.
Despite the result, the Stars showed offensive promise in the opening half and received a strong performance in goal from Brncova as they continue conference play.
