The UNI soccer team fell to the Evansville Purple Aces, 1-0, in a Missouri Valley Conference match on Thursday night at Arad McCutchan Stadium. Despite a strong offensive effort, with 13 shot attempts and six on target, the Panthers could not secure a win. UNI played a disciplined game, committing only nine fouls.
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Early in the match, Shaelee Franck tested the Evansville defense with a shot on goal in the second minute. Although the Panthers had additional attempts, including a missed opportunity by Morgan Smith in the 35th minute, the first half ended with Evansville registering three shot attempts, two of which were blocked.
The Purple Aces generated their first shot on goal in the 51st minute, as Brielle LaBerge, the reigning MVC Player of the Week, had her shot saved by UNI goalkeeper Hailey Luedtke. Franck had another close chance in the 53rd minute but missed. Smith made two additional attempts in the following minutes but was unable to score.
The match's turning point came in the 74th minute when a foul on Allison Flies led to a penalty kick for Evansville. LaBerge converted the kick, securing the only goal of the game. With this defeat, UNI's overall record against Evansville now stands at 7-17-5.
The Panthers share seventh place in the MVC standings with Valparaiso, each holding four points and four matches remaining before the MVC Tournament, where only the top six teams will qualify. Luedtke currently leads the MVC with 62 saves.
UNI will host the Murray State Racers on Sunday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m. CT at the UNI Soccer Field, with live coverage available on ESPN+. Fans are invited to bring dogs for the annual Pups At The Pitch event, with themed dog bandanas available while supplies last.