PELLA — Despite a valiant effort, the Central College women's soccer team was defeated by Loras College 3-1 Saturday afternoon.
           
The loss drops Central to 5-5-1 on the season (0-2 American Rivers Conference) as the Loras Duhawks improved to 8-3 (2-0 conference). A wet and muddy field was a major factor in the contest.

"The conditions certainly didn't help but I thought we played tough," coach Mike Kobylinski said. "I thought we were resilient and I think the communication on the bench and the field meant something today. We're never pleased with a loss but I think we had some learning moments that will help us throughout the rest of October."
           
Central was able to even the score at half 1-1 courtesy of midfielder Katie Wang's (junior, Brooklyn Park, Minn., Park Center HS) first goal of the year. She took advantage of a long pass from midfielder Anna Tillo (sophomore, West Burlington, Notre Dame HS) in the 43rd minute.
           
"Katie provided us a spark," Kobylinski said. "I got a little emotional at halftime after she scored because she had a great week of practice and gave us everything she had. I was really pleased with the shift she put in today."
           
Two of the three Duhawk goals were on set pieces.
           
"If we eliminate the set pieces, I think it's a more even match," Kobylinski said.
Striker Erin Manion (senior, Delafield, Wis., Kettle Moraine HS) had five shot attempts to lead the Dutch. Kobylinski also cited defenders Gabrielle Lillie (senior, Burlington, Notre Dame HS) and Alyssa Knuth (freshman, St. Joseph, Mich.) for their effort.
The Dutch will travel to Nebraska Wesleyan University on Wednesday for a 6 p.m. match in Lincoln.
           
"It will be on turf so the ball will bounce but it won't be skidding and sliding all over the place like today," Kobylinski said. "Once we get a day off tomorrow and have a few days of rest, we'll be excited to give it a go."