After back to back wins in their last two matches, the Lady Bruins soccer team fell to Oglethorpe University on Friday night in Atlanta, Georgia. The team would be without several key players in the match as Jenna Bishop, Brinkley Adams, and Mikayla Rajcan were all sidelined with injury.
"I am proud of how we played tonight," Bruins Head Coach Chris Carmichael said. "We had several opportunities that we should have finished for goals but we did a good job of penetrating and creating chances."
The Bruins came into the game after victories over Southern Wesleyan University and Brenau University. They knew they would be in for a tough matchup as they met the Stormy Petrals as Oglethorpe was a perfect 3-0 to start the season.
In the opening minutes, the Bruins and Petrels traded possession with each exchanging early scoring chances. The Bruins were able to play within their pace and style of play which freed up freshmen Emma Snow, Hannah Johnston and Kayle Stevenson for looks on frame. Despite their chances, the Bruins couldn't find the back of the net as the half ended 0-0.
With both teams looking to find the game's first goal, the Bruins and Petrels came out for the second half with renewed energy and urgency. Both teams again were able to create scoring chances, but both keepers stood strong making several great saves.
Finally, in the 69th minute of play, the Petrels would break the scoreless tie as a goal from Meagan Thacker gave Oglethorpe a 1-0 lead. The Bruins came right back as they looked to find the equalizer. Fatigue began to play a factor for the Bruins with several players logging extended minutes due to injured players being out.
In the 82nd minute of the match, Oglethorpe scored a decisive goal to increase their lead 2-0. Unfortunately, the Bruins couldn't recover as the match ended with the Bruins taking the loss and moving to 2-4 on the season.
"I know if all of our players were healthy we would have probably seen a different result," Coach Carmichael said. "Still, I am proud of our team and the great effort they gave tonight. They each played very well."
Bruins keeper Angelina Martin made three saves on the night with Oglethorpe outshooting BJU 8-7 in the game. Next up, the Bruins will be back on the road on Monday night as they face Brewton-Parker College in Mount Vernon, Georgia.
