October 19, 2016- The Concordia University Chicago Cougar Women's Soccer team headed to Aurora today to take on the Spartans in a late season Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference matchup. The Cougars were able to create chances throughout, but were unable to find the back of the net. The difference in the contest came on a penalty kick goal by Aurora in the 51st minute. 

The Cougars first chance came in the 26^th minute. A deflected ball sent it back towards the Aurora goal, where Sarah LaCost was able to box out the defender, spin around, and have a clear look at the net, but it would be saved on the right side.  Natalie Weinhold had another good look just over a minute later, but it sailed high.

The two teams came out of the locker room looking to try and break the 0-0 tie. The Spartans were able to take advantage of a misplayed ball by CUC to get a run on the left side in the 51^st minute. The Cougars broke down to defend, but an unfortunate foul called in the box granted the home Spartans a free kick. Alexis Bejarano took the PK for Aurora and placed it inside left post for the 1-0 lead.

The Cougars couldn't catch a break searching for the tie. Weinhold ripped off a shot that hit the left post, bounced off the Spartan goalie and fell just outside the left post out of bounce. Elizabeth Sanders had a chance go wide in the 64^th minute. CUC continued to search for the game tying goal late with shots from Sanders and Alison Kruk that were saved. 

"That was an unfortunate result", remarked Head Coach Chris Brown following the match. "I thought the performance and attention to detail deserved a better result. I think the team put in the right amount of work and effort today. To come out on the wrong side of the decision is tough, but all of our goals are still in front of us."

The Cougars (9-6-1 5-3 NACC) will have a quick turnaround. They take to the pitch again in less than 24 hours in non-conference action against Grinnell. Kickoff is set for 2:00pm from Concordia Stadium.