RALEIGH, N.C. — Meredith College used an early goal in the first half to gain momentum over the Averett University women's soccer team, handing the Cougars a 2-1 conference loss on Wednesday evening at Meredith Athletics Field. 

Jessica Wallace nailed a shot from 10 yards out to give Meredith (8-7-0, 6-5-0 USA South) the 1-0 upper hand in the 14th minute. The Cougars managed to hold off the Angels for a good portion of the first period, but Meredith snuck a shot past Averett's defense, also from close range. Kayla Boudreau booted a shot from five yards out to take a 2-0 lead just two minutes before halftime. 

Averett's backline held strong for the remainder of the match, and the Cougars were able to close the gap before the end of regulation. Senior defender Ashleigh Yando connected with senior midfielder Kaitlyn Barbour for a good shot selection in the final seconds. Barbour snagged her third goal of the season. 

The Cougars return to the field on Thursday, Oct. 20, as they travel to Fayetteville, North Carolina to battle the Methodist University Monarchs at 3:30 p.m.