HIRAM, Ohio – The Franciscan women's soccer team suffered a tough 4-1 loss to Mount Union today to wrap up the Hiram College Classic.

Franciscan scored the first goal of the game, taking an early 1-0 lead just 10:53 into action, but Mount Union went on to score four unanswered goals, including three late in the second half to secure the 4-1 win.

"I am so incredibly proud of this team and how they played today," remarked head coach Clare McBane. "The girls left everything they had on the field and played to the level of a good Mount Union team. Scoring first and keeping it close for most of the match against the defending OVC champions is something this team should be proud of."

Sophomore Kelsey Scott-Avery got FUS on the board as she gained possession of the ball off a Purple Raider turnover and beat the keeper to her left. Mount Union answered exactly two minutes later to tie the game, 1-1.

The score remained tied for the rest of the first half and most of the second. In her first start of her career, Marita Ostrich had five saves in each half, including one in the final 13 seconds of the first half to keep the game tied.

"The new girls to the team really stepped up and are competing at a high level and it gives me a lot of confidence for this team moving forward. Marita really had a great game in goal today, even though she gave up four, she save ratio was high and that's what you ask of your goalie."

Mount Union broke the tie with 12:33 left in regulation as Nicole Lanese found the back of the net off a pass from Julia Krause. The Purple Raiders added two more in the final six minutes of action for the 4-1 win.

Mount held the advantage in shots, 27-2, and corner kicks 8-1, but Franciscan led in saves, 10-1.

"We played two very good teams this weekend and played our hearts out. I am excited about this team and what we will do this year. These games were good to get us ready for conference competition."

The Lady Barons return to the field on Wednesday as they continue the road trip to open the season at Bethany for a 4:30 pm start.