NEED TO KNOW:
Score: #2 William Carey (MS) 2, Life U 1
Records: Life U, 13-1 (7-1 SSAC); William Carey (MS), 13-1 (7-0 SSAC)
HATTIESBURG, Miss. —The Life University women's soccer team's incredible undefeated start to the 2025 season came to an end Thursday night, as the Running Eagles battled relentlessly on the road before ultimately falling 2–1 to No. 2 William Carey (MS) in a tightly contested SSAC matchup.
The Running Eagles controlled possession early, creating multiple chances in the opening ten minutes, including a dangerous effort from Ana Diaz that was turned away by a save from William Carey's keeper to keep the match scoreless.
Despite Life U's strong start and sustained attacking pressure, the Crusaders broke through first in the 20th minute off an incredible strike from Alessia Navarro. The Running Eagles took little time to respond though, as relentless pressure from Helen Gutierrez forced a turnover deep in the Crusaders' defensive third, setting up Sacha Millward to level the match. Millward's composed finish brought the score to 1–1 heading into halftime.
The second half began with a momentum-shifting moment, as a controversial handball call inside the box led to a William Carey penalty kick. The Crusaders capitalized, with Karen Vilau converting from the spot in the 46th minute to regain the lead.
Life U continued to press forward, finishing the night with a 7–2 advantage in corner kicks and several threatening deliveries into the box. The Running Eagles fought to the final whistle but were unable to draw level, as the Crusaders secured a 2–1 win to end Life U's undefeated start to the season.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:
– William Carey outshot Life U 16–7.
– Both teams recorded five shots on goal.
– Life U held a 7–2 edge in corner kicks.
– Elora Niederpruem tallied three saves in goal.
TURNING POINT:
– A controversial handball early in the second half led to the deciding penalty kick in the 46th minute.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
– Sacha Millward scored Life U's lone goal in the 35th minute.
– Ana Diaz created multiple early chances and took three corner kicks.
– Elora Niederpruem made three saves to anchor the defense.
