Upper Iowa women's soccer fell 2-1 against McKendree University in their home opener at Harms-Eischeid Stadium. The reigning GLVC champs set the tone early on and clung to a one point lead to finish out the game.

Destiny Johnson found the back of the net for the Bearcats in the 7th minute on an assist from Morgan Bova on a free kick from distance, setting the pace for the match. Their second goal came within the 12th minute from a loose ball hurdling freely down the turf toward Peacock territory. Anna Stiffler executed the goal, giving McKendree a 2-0 early lead.

In the final minutes of the first half, Leah Willenbring attempted a header off a corner kick. Her shot was denied in a diving save by goalie Abby Tucker.

The Peacocks came out in the second half looking to take advantage of present opportunities. In the 55th minute of the match, Haley Ramberg chased down a loose ball and was fouled in the box. Katie Samuels connected on a penalty kick, bringing the score to 2-1.

Both teams had several opportunities down the stretch to score, but could not finalize. In the last 20 seconds of the match, UIU presented themselves with an opportunity to score off a corner kick, but came up short. McKendree outshot Upper Iowa 15-4. 

Both goalkeepers were challenged throughout the competition. Mckendree's Abby Tucker posted three saves and Upper Iowa's Isabelle Wagner recorded four. 

Peacock women's soccer makes their next appearance back home at Harms-Eischeid Stadium taking on Rockhurst University on Aug. 27 at 1:30pm.