WPU Stymied by Pioneers

Oskaloosa–The William Penn women’s soccer team was held off the scoreboard on a blustery day at Drost Field as it fell 2-0 to MidAmerica Nazarene in Heart of America Athletic Conference action Saturday.

The Statesmen (4-9, 2-6 Heart), who were trying to build off last Saturday’s 4-3 come-from-behind victory over Park, were limited to just one shot on goal against MNU (4-7-1, 4-3-1 Heart).

The hosts were outshot 15-8, including an 8-3 mark in the opening 45 minutes, a half in which they played into the wind. Despite having the gusts to their back, the Pioneers failed to break the tie until the 33rd minute. The margin held at one at halftime.

Down only one goal, the navy and gold were definitely in the contest as the teams switched ends. Unfortunately, the wind to its collective back did not do much to help William Penn’s cause. MNU actually managed to double its advantage at the 62:11 mark and held on for the shutout.

Taylor Witthauer (So., Vancouver, Wash., Nursing) guided the offense with three shots, while Katja Bierman (So., Alkmaar, The Netherlands, Digital Communication) posted eight saves in the loss.

Next Up: William Penn remains in Oskaloosa next Tuesday to host Mount Mercy in Heart play at 5 p.m. The game will also serve as Senior Night.