SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – No. 16 Spring Arbor University battled No. 4 Indiana Wesleyan University throughout Wednesday night's Crossroads League opener, but a late goal lifted the Wildcats to a 3-2 victory at the Cougar Soccer Complex.
Spring Arbor fell to 6-2-1 overall and 0-1 in Crossroads League play, while Indiana Wesleyan remained unbeaten at 9-0-1 overall and 1-0 in the conference.
The Cougars struck first in the 13th minute.
Kayla Baar found the back of the net for her first goal of the season, giving SAU an early 1-0 advantage.
Indiana Wesleyan responded just over four minutes later when Sydney Couch scored off an assist from Alyssa Hamann to level the match at 1-1. The score remained tied through the remainder of the opening half despite Spring Arbor holding a 9-6 advantage in shots.
The Wildcats moved in front for the first time in the 66th minute when Avery Williams scored off an assist from Anna Pettitt. Spring Arbor continued to push for an equalizer and was rewarded in the 78th minute.
Claire VanZanten set up
Ava Unger, who put away her second goal of the season to bring the Cougars even at 2-2.
The tie lasted just 53 seconds, however, as Katelyn Vanderark answered for Indiana Wesleyan at the 78:01 mark to put the Wildcats back in front, 3-2.
Spring Arbor had opportunities to find another equalizer down the stretch.
Tessa Ponstein put a shot on goal in the 83rd minute and
Alana Simmons forced another save in the 87th before
Ava Staker sent the Cougars' final attempt high with 22 seconds remaining.
The Cougars finished with a 17-12 advantage in shots, with both teams putting eight attempts on goal. SAU also held a 5-3 edge in corner kicks.
Kailey Walcott made five saves in goal for Spring Arbor.
Spring Arbor returns to action Saturday, Sept. 26, traveling to Fort Wayne to face the University of Saint Francis. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
