The University of Maine at Presque Isle women's soccer team opened North Atlantic Conference play Saturday afternoon, falling 2-0 to VTSU-Johnson at Minaert Field. The Owls battled throughout the match but were unable to overcome two first-half goals from the Badgers.

VTSU-Johnson came out with offensive pressure early, putting 14 shots toward the UMPI goal during the opening 45 minutes. The Badgers broke through in the 15th minute when Elizabeth Love scored at 14:45, with Emilia Garcia providing the assist to give Johnson a 1-0 lead. Johnson doubled its advantage just over 11 minutes later. Garcia found the back of the net at 26:03 to make it 2-0 heading into halftime. UMPI goalkeeper Michaela Carney kept the Owls within striking distance, making eight saves during the first half. The Owls recorded one shot in the opening half, with Kamryn Clavette and Brianna Levesque each attempting to create opportunities.

UMPI came out with more offensive pressure after halftime, recording two shots during the second half and earning two of its three corner kicks in the final 45 minutes. Leah Hebert registered the Owls' lone shot on goal, but VTSU-Johnson goalkeeper Sophia Johnson turned it away. Carney continued her strong performance in goal, making another four saves in the second half. She finished the afternoon with 10 saves over 90 minutes. Despite the increased offensive pressure from the Owls, Johnson's defense held firm to preserve the 2-0 shutout.

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In Goal: Michaela Carney made 10 saves while facing 14 shots on target from VTSU-Johnson.

UMPI Attack: The Owls finished with three shots, with Leah Hebert recording the team's lone shot on goal. Kamryn Clavette and Brianna Levesque also registered shots.

The loss drops UMPI to 0-5-0 overall and 0-1-0 in NAC play. The Owls will look to earn their first win of the season Tuesday, September 22, when they travel to Augusta to face the University of Maine at Augusta. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.