LYNCHBURG, Va. - In a closely contested ODAC match-up, Randolph College women's soccer was edged 2-1 by Averett University after a scoreless first half. The game saw both teams fight for control with defensive efforts dominating the first 45 minutes.

Both teams battled offensively in the first half trading possession back and forth. The WildCats took the offensive lead over the Cougars 12-2 in shots taken against Averett goalkeeper Tila Chrons—however, the first half ended in a stalemate.

Opening the second half, both teams quickened their offensive pace taking early shots but it was the WildCats that broke the deadlock in the 60th minute. An offensive play by the sophomore midfielder Amanda Ramirez-Rodriguez to senior forward Sterlyn Woodward found the back of the net, giving Randolph a 1-0 lead. However, not long after, the Cougars responded with the equalizer from a well-placed pass from Leah Brethren to Celia de Diego for a leveled score at 1-1. As the minutes wound down on the clock, both teams had opportunities to secure a late winner but it was the Cougars that capitalized on a break in Randolph's defense to secure the game-winning goal from Isobel Evans, assisted by Hailey Juhasz, securing a 2-1 lead.

Despite pushing for the equalizer, Randolph couldn't find the back of the net again as Averett's defense held firm. The WildCats had a total of 22-8 shots and 8-5 shots on goal over the Cougars.

The 'Cats are back in action when the team travels to Greensboro, N.C. to face the Quakers of Guilford College at 4 p.m. on Wednesday.