TYLER, Texas – The East Central University soccer team closed out their season-opening weekend with a challenging contest against UT Tyler on Saturday, ultimately falling to the Patriots by a decisive 5-1 margin.
 
The Tigers found themselves trailing quickly as the Patriots scored twice in the first 10 minutes, including a goal just 32 seconds into the match. Reece Roberson, Amorette Ramos, and Olivia Witte tried to cut the deficit, but none succeeded in finding the back of net. Less than two minutes before the break, UT Tyler extended their lead with a another goal, making it a 3-0 advantage at halftime.
 
Following the intermission, the Patriots maintained their offensive pressure, but nothing connected early in the half. The Tigers capitalized on their first shot of the second period, though, with Abbie Morris adding a goal off an assist from Ximena Resendiz to trail 3-1.
 
Despite this, ECU was only able to generate one more shot, while UT Tyler continued to press forward, eventually tacking on two more goals for insurance to secure the 5-1 victory at home.
 
ECU's defense and goalkeeper Madison Mayhall were put to the test from UT Tyler's explosive attack, with the Patriots firing 30 shots, 11 of which were on target, while ECU was limited to just five shots and three on goal. Mayhall finished with six saves in the match.
 
ECU soccer will gear up for their next match of the season with a road match at Pittsburg State University on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 3 pm.