Oct. 3, 2008

SZPARTANBURG, S.C. - The Upstate women's soccer team fell to 2-8 on the season and 0-3 in Atlantic Sun play after Friday night's 1-0 loss to Belmont at County University Soccer Stadium.

Close games have been common for the Spartans as the loss marks their sixth 1-0 defeat of the season. Belmont improves to 8-3-0 and 3-0 in the A-Sun, boasting the league's best record.

The game was scoreless until sophomore, Madison Porter, notched her second goal of the year to give the Bruins the only offense they would need. Porter's shot, with 10 minutes left in the first half, was from inside the five-yard mark and rolled into the back left corner. Alex Morgado recorded the assist.

The Spartans created their chances throughout the second half as they controlled the majority of play on the Bruins' defensive half but were unable to convert their touches and possessions into shots. Junior Santana De Freitas anchored many of the Spartan's offensive attacks, but the Belmont defense remained steady throughout the game.

Freshman Crystal Hackett led the Spartan's offense with five shots. The Spartans totaled nine shots overall, but none that posed as a real challenge for Bruins' goalie, Sari Lin. The Belmont offense recorded 14 shots, five of them on goal.

"Belmont is obviously a strong team in the Conference right now," said Upstate's assistant coach, Anna Baker. "I think our girls played right with them, but unfortunately, the shots didn't fall for us."

The Upstate women will return to action on Sunday, Oct. 5, at 12 p.m., as they will continue with A-Sun Conference play, hosting the Lipscomb Bisons.