WOMEN’S SOCCER

The HU women’s soccer team came up short in its season opener Tuesday afternoon by way of a 2-1 loss to Cleary at Lake Trust Stadium.

After giving up two goals in the first half, the Foresters took control in the second frame with their pay-off coming in the 63rd minute on Paige Weiss’ header off a corner kick by Ellie Cirrincione. The Foresters generated a few more shot opportunities but couldn’t get anything to stick before time expired much to the chagrin of Coach David Lewis and his crew.

“We didn’t get the desired result today. It’s a young team and we played tentative soccer in the first half.

“We stepped things up in the second half and had our chances but fell short. Paige and Ellie combined a nice goal to get us close. It’s a great group to coach and we’ll work to get back on track for Saturday’s home opener.”

Huntington doubled up their hosts in shots taken, 14-7, and enjoyed six corner kicks to the Cougars’ four. Aerni Ireland took the loss in goal. The sophomore keeper finished with three saves during her 90 minutes in frame.

HU (0-1) hosts IU Northwest on Saturday at noon.