TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The first winning season in program history ended in heartbreak for the Missouri Western Soccer team as they lost 1-0 to Northeastern State on a goal in the 85th minute of the first round MIAA Tournament matchup.

McKenzie Musella scored her fifth goal of the season with just five minutes remaining in regulation. The unassisted goal came from the top of the box and flew over Sarah Lyle’s reach.

Lyle finished the game with three saves. Northeastern State finished the game with nine shots to Missouri Western’s eight after the Griffons went to the break with a 5-4 shot advantage.

Sydney Andrews’ shot on goal in the first period was the only in the game for Missouri Western. Andrews and Bridget Blessie led Missouri Western with three shots apiece. Cassidy Chappell and Drew Mantlo added the other two shots for Missouri Western.

The loss ended the Griffons’ season at 9-8-1, the first winning season in program history and the second appearance in the postseason after making the first ever one season ago. It was the team’s tenth 1-0 match of the season. Lyle and the Griffon defense allowed more than one goal just once over 18 games.

— MWSU Athletics —