HUNTSVILLE | The University of Alabama in Huntsville women's soccer team opened the 2017 campaign on Thursday, falling 1-0 to visiting McKendree at Charger Park. The Chargers start the year at 0-1, while the Bearcats – who received votes in the preseason national rankings – begin at 1-0.
 
Turning Points
-The lone goal of the game came in the 22nd minute of the contest when Alynnah O'Leary tallied.
-UAH nearly tied the contest just minutes into the second half when Baylie Spring found herself alone in front, but her attempt was just kicked out of harm's way by the McKendree keeper Zoe Brochu.
-The Chargers nearly found the equalizer later on the in the second half, but the would-be tying goal was pulled off the board as UAH was deemed to be offside.
 
Inside the Box Score
-The visitors held a 20-8 advantage in shots and also finished the contest leading in shots that were on target by an 11-4 clip.
-Riley Ridgeway had a pair of shots to lead the Chargers, while Madyson Mossman fired off five to pace McKendree.
-Megan Buford was strong in goal for the Chargers, registering 10 saves in her debut contest.
-Corners in the game were level at three per side.
-A total of 16 fouls – including 12 called against UAH – drew whistles in the contest, and one caution was issued as Sydnie Markowski picked up a card in the 57th for the Bearcats.
 
Noteworthy
-In addition to Buford, three Chargers – Hannah Oglesby, Mia Jetsu, and Mia Penton – played each of the game's 90 minutes.
-The Chargers also dropped last season's home opener by a 1-0 score, but that setback spurned on a four-game winning streak that matched the longest string of victories in program history.
 
Next Time Out
-The Chargers will aim to bounce back on Sunday when Tusculum visits. Kickoff at Charger Park is slated for 1 p.m.