KEARNEY, Neb. – A strong second-half surge was not enough for Western State Colorado University Women's Soccer on Friday. The Mountaineers fell in the season opener to Concordia University, St. Paul 1-0 in Kearney, Nebraska.
 
It was a goal in the 11^th minute by CSP's Jade Weller that spoiled the season opener for the Mountaineers (0-1, 0-0 RMAC). Weller's goal came from just outside the 18-yard box on the right side of the field.
 
It took Western some time to find their rhythm, but once they did, the Mountaineers controlled the pace of play.
 
After the first-half goal, Western displayed grit and fortitude in the second 45 minutes. The Mountaineers recorded four shots in the second half, while holding the Golden Bears to just four shots of their own.
 
Goalkeeper Emilie Eckhart made her 16^th career appearance in net for Western on Friday. Eckhart recorded seven saves, tying her single match season high from 2017.
 
 Aspen Heale and Megan Wheelock each put a shot on net for the Mountaineers.
 
Western will return to the pitch in Kearney, Nebraska on Sunday. The Mountaineers will face Newman University at 1 p.m. (MDT).