Southwestern women's soccer faced off against the Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusaders on Wednesday in Belton, Texas. The Pirates met a difficult challenge against a 6-0 Crusader team that was ranked 14th in the nation in the September, 20th United Soccer Coaches Poll. 

Southwestern has struggled early on in road trips this season, giving up goals early in the first half against the home team. The Crusaders wasted no time putting up the first goal against the Pirates, scoring in the sixth minute of the match. The Crusaders went on to score again in the 28' minute, giving them a 2-0 lead headed into halftime. 

The Crusader defense stymied a normally high-powered Pirate offense, only allowing two shots from the Pirates in the first half. The Crusaders kept the ball in their attacking third, firing ten shots and three corner kicks in the first half alone. Southwestern's offense, which at times acts as its best defense, was unable to possess the ball against UMHB and gain opportunities. 

Much like previous road games, the Pirates settled in at the start of the second half and were able to even out the match-up. The Pirates shut out the Crusaders in the second half, only allowing five shots and zero goals from UMHB. Southwestern pressed harder on offense in the second, drawing seven fouls from UMHB, collecting four corner kicks and three shots. However, the Pirates were unable to capitalize on any of their opportunities and the match ended in favor of UMHB with a final score of 2-0.

The Pirates return home for the weekend, playing two games against Austin College on Friday, September 23rd at 7:00 PM and Sunday, September 25th at 1:00 PM  

Photo by Carlos Barron