NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Life 0, Marian 3
Records: Life 14-5-1; Marian 17-3-2

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Life U women's soccer 2024 season came to an end Saturday evening as the team was unable to keep pace with Marian University in the second round of the NAIA National Tournament. 

The contest was close in the first half, but the Running Eagles failed to up with the Knight in the second half. The first half  was a tough defensive battle for the Running Eagles who only had a few chances to get a goal off, but was able to keep Marian out of the box. The Knights were able to break through the Running Eagles' defense and take the lead in the 23rd minute. As the teams kept battling the rest of the half, Marian went into halftime up 1-0. 

The Running Eagles came into the second half with more energy and kept the hope of advancing further. Life U created more opportunities in the second half but were unable to capitalize on any of them. The Knights were able to score two additional goals only three minutes apart in the 50th minute to extend the lead 3-0. The Running Eagles kept battling throughout the second half and didn't give up until the whistle was blown, but were unable to prevail. 

Head Coach Meg McGonigle shared her thoughts on the team's performance postgame, stating, "We had a tough night tonight. We never found our rhythm on the ball but the girls dug deep and fought hard. Marian's a great side and we wish them the best in the tournament." 

McGonigle also shared her appreciation for the seniors who played their last game, stating, "I want to say a special thank you to all our seniors. I have been lucky enough to coach them all for 2 years, and they are a very special group on and off the field" 

Life U ends the season with a 14-5-1 record after making history by making it to the NAIA National Championship Tournament for the second year in a row.