SPARTANBERG, S.C. – Needing a win to keep its Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament hopes alive, the Lipscomb women’s soccer team stumbled to a 1-0 loss at the hands of USC Upstate Friday night in Spartanberg, S.C. 

The loss drops the Lipscomb to 2-9-4 overall and 0-5-2 in A-Sun play. The win gave the Spartans their first win in league play at 1-5-0 and improves its overall record to 3-12-0. 

“It was a competitive game against two teams at the same competitive level,” Lipscomb head coach Kevin O’Brien said. “The difference was that Upstate finished its best chance and we missed a few glorious opportunities.”

“We unfortunately lack the ability to execute the fundamentals, while under pressure, that would help us win soccer games.”

The Lady Bisons controlled the first stanza unleashing six shots with three on goal but was unable to convert on any opportunity while holding the Spartans to just two shots. 

Upstate was able to squeeze a goal coming out of the break. Just 1:56 into the second period, Kaylie Moore served the ball off a free kick to Rachel Carr who headed the ball for the 1-0 lead and game-winner. 

Lipscomb had its opportunities down the stretch but was unable to tally an equalizer. 

Freshman Caroline Chadwell led LU with three shots, placing two on goal, while sophomore Baylee Linnell attempted two shots. Senior goalkeeper Erin Zerio had four saves while her counterpart Sarah Plantz had five stops. 

“We need to recover quickly, both mentally and physically, in order to play well on Sunday against a very good ETSU team,” O’Brien said. 

The Lady Bisons continue on the road on Sunday, the final road game of the season, with a match at ETSU. The game is slated to begin at noon and can be seen for free on ASun.TV.

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