ROLLA, Mo. – The Missouri S&T women's soccer team opened its 2026 home schedule Thursday evening at Allgood-Bailey Stadium, falling 1-0 to University of Central Missouri in a closely contested nonconference matchup.
Central Missouri (1-0) broke through in the 16th minute when Ryann Clark found the back of the net to give the Jennies a 1-0 advantage. The goal came after S&T goalkeeper
Catie Riddle (Westland, MI/Churchill) made an early save on Clark just moments before the Jennies converted their opportunity.
The Miners (0-1) responded with several opportunities of their own in the opening half.
Drue Gaal (Kirkwood, MO/Kirkwood) recorded S&T's first shot on goal in the 29th minute, but Central Missouri goalkeeper Kristen Wright made the save.
Ella Kramer (Liberty, MO/Liberty North) also recorded two shots during the contest.
"It was a battle for sure. They (UCM) are so well drilled in everything they do, provided us with some challenges. Disappointing to lose off a penalty kick as well, decision didn't quite go our way," reports Head Coach
Matthew Perry.
S&T continued to battle in the second half, earning two corner kicks in the opening 18 minutes of the period.
Aubrey Case (Yorktown, VA/Tabb) had a chance in the 75th minute, but her shot went over the goal.
Adriana Benassi (Lee's Summit, MO/Lee's Summit) added another opportunity with less than four minutes remaining, but her attempt went wide.
Riddle kept the Miners within one throughout the contest, finishing with six saves on seven Central Missouri shots on goal. S&T held the Jennies scoreless throughout the second half but could not find the equalizer.
Central Missouri held a 9-5 advantage in shots and a 4-2 edge in corner kicks.
"Its a good starting point. We started really slow and weren't brave enough in possession which is disappointing since we work on it a lot so those would be some good places to start to prepare for our match Sunday. I'm proud of the fight the girls showed. That will take us a long way!" says Perry.
What's Next
The Miners will look to bounce back in its next contest on Sunday when they welcome University of Southern Missouri.
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