Springfield Standard

Missouri State University's women's soccer team lost its first conference match in two years on Sunday, ending a 24-match unbeaten streak in league play. The Bears were defeated 4-3 by Western Kentucky at Allison South Stadium.

The match featured an active first half with five goals scored. Missouri State took the lead early when Julia Kristensen scored in the eighth minute after a pass from Lillie Rasmussen. Western Kentucky responded with two goals from Georgia Liapis in the 19th and 24th minutes to go ahead 2-1.

Missouri State quickly tied the game as Reilly Heman scored less than a minute later. Kristensen then added her second goal of the day in the 38th minute, assisted by Addy Rozycki's corner kick, giving Missouri State a 3-2 lead at halftime.

In the second half, both teams' defenses limited opportunities until Lauren Alexander of Western Kentucky equalized in the 75th minute. Alyvia Walls then scored what proved to be the winning goal for Western Kentucky in the 85th minute, with Liapis providing the assist.

Missouri State had more shots (14) and corner kicks (8) compared to Western Kentucky's eight shots and six corners but was unable to secure a win. Kristensen led Missouri State with five shots and two goals, while Heman contributed three shots and one goal.

"We started off very strong against a physical and direct opponent," said head coach Kirk Nelson. "We felt good coming out of halftime with the lead, but unfortunately, we were not as sharp as we needed to be on defensive set pieces, and that cost us the game. We will regroup, reset, and get ready for our next home match on Thursday."

Missouri State will continue its homestand next week, hosting Louisiana Tech on Thursday at 6 p.m., followed by Sam Houston on Sunday at 1 p.m., both at Allison South Stadium. Admission is free for all fans.