The Grand Canyon University women's soccer team (4-12-1, 3-7-1) lost by a 3-0 decision today at Utah Valley University (8-8-1, 6-3-1) in a Western Athletic Conference matchup on Clyde Field in Orem, Utah. The Wolverines own the third-most wins in the WAC as they picked up their third victory in the past five games.

The Antelopes were hampered by a number of injuries throughout the game.

"I thought that the girls played well defensively in the first half and then injuries took their toll on us," said head coach Stevie Gill. "We needed to take five starters out due to injury and that clearly changed the dimension of the game in the second half. I'm very proud of the girls' gutsy performance in the second half as they competed to the final whistle."

Although the teams played to a scoreless tie in the first 45 minutes, the 'Lopes held the advantage in shots, 7-5, and put two of those on target. GCU keeper Cat Lena stopped three shots by the Wolverines in the half.

The two squads were even with two shot attempts apiece to open the second half before the Wolverines broke through with a goal in the 56^th minute when Kim Stratford was assisted by Haley Curtis for the score. UVU made it a two goal game in the 75^th minute on a Natalie Baker header that bounced off of the left post and into the net. She was assisted by Jamie Brown on the play.

The Wolverines extended their advantage to 3-0 eight minutes later, this time when a loose ball in the box found the foot of Baker and sailed over the head of Lena. UVU put GCU's defense to work in the final 45 minutes, as they outshot the 'Lopes 20-13. Lena ended up with seven saves in the game, her 10^th contest of the season, and third straight, with at least five stops.

"We sent numbers forward looking for an equalizer and that really opened up the game," added Gill. "Martine Gjennestad, Emily Ravenhill, Cierra Valdez, and Jessica Valadez worked tirelessly and should be commended for showing great character throughout the game."

Offensively, Cassie Beckwith led GCU with three shot attempts, one of which was on goal. Taylor Layton, Veronica Nikas, and Rakeisha Sealey each recorded a shot on goal.

The 'Lopes will play their final game of the 2013 season on Sunday, a 12 p.m. contest at CSU Bakersfield. Fans can follow the action via live stats by visiting www.gculopes.com.

 

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