ADA, Okla. – The East Central University soccer team dropped its final non-conference match of the season on Saturday afternoon, falling to Pittsburg State by a score of 7-1 at Tiger Soccer Field.
 
Despite the result, the day held significance for the program as ECU recognized seven seniors for their contributions to the team – Madison Martinez, Angelica Bochus, Averi Ferguson, Emily Green, Haleigh Goodson, Abbeigh Bland, and Ximena Resendiz.
 
ECU held their own through much of the first half against Pittsburg State, keeping the match scoreless for over 35 minutes. The Tigers generated a few chances, including a shot on goal from Giselle Heck in the 17th minute and another effort from Addisyn Brown that went just wide. Goalkeeper Courtney Dugan tallied two saves to keep ECU in the game early, while the defense held PSU to six offside calls in the half. However, Pittsburg State broke through late with goals in the 37th and 39th minutes to take a 2-0 lead into the break.
 
PSU took control in the second half, scoring five goals after halftime to seal the match. ECU goalkeeper Madison Mayhall made three saves, including two early in the half, but the Gorillas broke through in the 62nd minute and added two more quick goals by the 68th. Avery Spadoni got ECU on the board in the 70th minute with her first goal of the season, but PSU responded with two more late goals to close out the 7-1 result.
 
The Tigers will now prepare for Great American Conference play with matchups against Ouachita Baptist University and Harding University Sept. 25 and Sep. 27.