09/18/2024 Fulton, MO- In a hard-fought match at Kent & Judith Mueller Stadium on September 17, 2024, Westminster's women's soccer team faced Central (Iowa) at Kent & Judith Mueller Stadium, ultimately falling 2-0. 

Despite the loss, Westminster showed several positives in their performance. The team demonstrated effective ball movement, which helped maintain possession and create opportunities. Their defense was strong, with well-timed stepping to disrupt Central's attacks and applied consistent pressure throughout the match. 

However, Westminster faced challenges in the attacking third, struggling to complete passes to their own players, which hindered their ability to convert chances into goals. Central took advantage of Westminster's struggles and took the lead late in the first half when Josie Newton scored at the 41:40 mark, assisted by Nicole Sinclair. In the second half, Abby Frey extended Central's lead in the 66th minute with an unassisted goal. 

Central's goalkeeper, Josie Farmer, played a pivotal role, securing the shutout with seven saves, while Westminster's Mia Turner made five saves but allowed two goals. Central outshot Westminster, with Central registering 15 shots (9 on target) compared to Westminster's 8 shots (4 on target). Central also dominated in corner kicks, earning 4 to Westminster's 1. 

With this result, Central (Iowa) improved to a 5-2-0 record for the season, while Westminster's record shifted to 1-3-1. The match showcased competitive play and strategic movement from both sides. Moving forward, Westminster will look to build on their positive aspects in their next match on Sunday, September 22nd in Memphis, Tennessee as they take on Rhodes College.