SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – The Spring Arbor University women's soccer team continued its climb in the national rankings Wednesday, moving up three spots to No. 16 in the second regular-season STADIONIC NAIA Women's Soccer Coaches' Top 25 Poll.
 
The Cougars were ranked No. 19 in the first regular-season poll after opening the year at No. 21 in the preseason rankings. Spring Arbor was listed at 5-1-1 when the latest poll was compiled.
 
SAU opened the season with five consecutive victories, including four straight shutouts against Aquinas, Holy Cross, IU Northwest and Saint Xavier. The Cougars followed with a 2-1 victory over Cornerstone before earning a scoreless draw on the road against Campbellsville, which is receiving votes in the latest national poll.
 
Spring Arbor's lone setback came in a 2-1 road loss to Lindsey Wilson, which moved up one spot to No. 12 this week. The Cougars struck first in that contest on a goal from Jessie Postma before Lindsey Wilson scored the game-winner in the 88th minute.
 
Keiser reclaimed the No. 1 position in this week's poll, receiving 17 of the 19 first-place votes. Marian climbed to No. 2, followed by Cumberlands at No. 3, Indiana Wesleyan at No. 4 and Embry-Riddle at No. 5.
 
Spring Arbor is one of five Crossroads League programs represented in the Top 25. Marian leads the group at No. 2, followed by No. 4 Indiana Wesleyan, No. 7 Grace, No. 16 Spring Arbor and No. 20 Taylor.
 
Since the poll was compiled, the Cougars improved to 6-1-1 with a 4-0 road victory over Rochester Christian on Wednesday.
 
Spring Arbor now turns its attention to Crossroads League play and will open the conference schedule with a top-20 matchup at home against No. 4 Indiana Wesleyan on Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.