The Case Western Reserve University women’s soccer team ended their season on a down note, suffering a 2-1 defeat at Carnegie Mellon University on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Carnegie Mellon started off the scoring in the match with an early goal in the 10th minute by fourth-year forward Kaily Bruch.

The rest of the first half was quiet, with the Spartans keeping the score in striking distance. The close game was mostly due to second-year goalkeeper Lauren Metz, who had three of her four saves during the first half.

In the second half, the Spartans answered back.

In the 63rd minute, first-year forward Christina Hickson dribbled into the box and laced a ground shot past the defender and oncoming goalkeeper to score near the far post to tie the score at one.

The goal added to Hickson’s impressive season, with her eighth goal and 17th point to lead the team.

Carnegie Mellon answered five minutes after Hickson’s goal when third-year midfielder Tara Durstewitz would net the eventual game winner.

The Spartans ended the 2018 campaign with an overall record of 7-10 and a University Athletic Association record of 0-7.

“Given the injuries we sustained, I think we fared very well. I, obviously, would’ve liked to have seen us get a result in our conference play, but we scored more goals in more games than we have in recent years,” Head Coach Tiffany Crooks said. “Had we been at full strength, I think we’re having a completely different conversation right now and might even be looking at a postseason berth.”

Looking forward to the offseason and the 2019 campaign, Crooks is optimistic about the team.

“I’m always thinking ahead and trying to figure out what we need to do and become to get better.  I feel very optimistic. We played so many young players this year, and they picked up valuable experience,” she said. “Our older returning players seem to have developed more energy and impatience in our results…so I’m hoping that turns into greater leadership and accountability in the offseason. Our 2019 recruiting class will be strong as well, so I’m looking forward to the offseason and next fall.”