FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Methodist University got on the board 11 minutes into the game and didn't look back from there, defeating the Averett women's soccer team 3-0 on Thursday afternoon.

Despite the loss, Averett (8-8, 6-6 USA South) still sits in solid standing to qualify for the conference tournament, which starts Oct. 26. With only two games remaining, the Cougars currently sit in fifth in the USA South standings with the top six teams from each division qualifying.

Methodist (6-5-2, 6-2-2 USA South) picked up a goal from Sara Snotherly on an assist from Jasmine Newman to jump out in front 1-0 at the 11:59 mark. Averett's defense was solid the rest of the first half, not allowing another score to help keep its deficit at one heading into the break.

However, the Monarchs got on the board nearly 15 minutes into the second half to take a two-goal advantage. Kortney Maggard took a pass from Miranda Cowardin and finished her attempt to make it 2-0. Methodist would get on the board again just a minute later, when Capri Clark fired home her shot on a pass from Jasmine Newman that sealed the win for the Monarchs.

Sophomore goalkeeper Bailee Brown turned in a solid performance, recording 11 saves on the afternoon.

Averett returns to action on Saturday when it hosts Mary Baldwin University at 4 p.m. on Senior Day. The Cougars will honor the playing careers of seven seniors.