Olathe, Kan. — The Graceland University Yellowjackets faced a tough test in its match against undefeated MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU) on Saturday. Despite a strong start and flashes of brilliance throughout the match, Graceland fell to the Pioneers by a final score of 4-2 in its first Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) game of the season.

The match opened with promise for the Yellowjackets as forward Emily Carmen capitalized on an early opportunity, scoring her third goal of the season just 23 seconds into the game. Carmen's unassisted strike gave Graceland a brief 1-0 lead, setting the tone for what initially looked like a tightly contested match.

MidAmerica Nazarene quickly responded, however, as midfielder Emily Carrasco proved to be the star of the day. Carrasco equalized in the fifth minute with her first of four goals, this one assisted by Bella Leon. She went on to score again in the 13th minute, giving MNU a 2-1 lead before halftime.

Graceland's defense, led by goalkeeper Maggie Peterson, worked tirelessly to hold off the relentless attack of MNU. Peterson tallied six saves over the 90 minutes, facing 22 shots—10 of which were on goal. Graceland managed eight total shots, with five on target, as they fought to keep pace with the aggressive Pioneer offense.

The second half saw Carrasco continue her dominance. She added two more goals, one in the 51st minute assisted by Alyssa Ward and another in the 58th minute off a pass from Valerie Veloz. These goals extended MNU's lead to 4-1, putting the game largely out of reach for the Yellowjackets.

Despite the deficit, Graceland continued to battle. In the 59th minute, Chloe Montera found the back of the net with her third goal of the season, assisted by Carmen and midfielder Mayra Gutierrez. This late surge provided a spark for Graceland, but the team was unable to find additional goals to close the gap.

"We started the game on the right foot with that early goal," head coach Randall Porter said following the match. "Proud of the girls and the way we played today. MNU is a very good team and we did some good things. As long as we learn, improve, and take steps forward, I'll always be happy with the progress. Our focus shifts to our first conference home game on Wednesday."

Graceland displayed flashes of strong play throughout the game, particularly in the second half where they created several chances, earning four corner kicks. However, the Pioneers' organization and efficiency in the attacking third proved to be the difference. Carrasco, in particular, was unstoppable, leading MNU's offense with precision and composure.

Yellowjackets' forward Emily Carmen was once again a key figure for Graceland, not only scoring but also contributing an assist on Montera's second-half goal. Carmen, along with Montera and Gutierrez, consistently tested the Pioneers' defense but were met with strong resistance from MNU goalkeeper Fiona Popetschnig, who recorded three saves on the day.

The game marked the beginning of conference play for both teams. With the loss, Graceland now stands at 3-3-2 overall and 0-1-0 in the HAAC, while MidAmerica Nazarene improves to a perfect 7-0-0 overall and 1-0-0 in conference.

Graceland will look to regroup as they prepare for its upcoming home game. The Yellowjackets will host their first HAAC matchup at home on Wednesday, hoping to build on the positive moments from this contest and continue their pursuit of a strong conference campaign.

Match Stats:

• Goals: Graceland – Emily Carmen (0:23), Chloe Montera (58:47); MNU – Emily Carrasco (4:48, 12:48, 50:43, 57:59).
• Shots: Graceland – 8 (5 on goal); MNU – 22 (10 on goal).
• Saves: Graceland – Maggie Peterson (6); MNU – Fiona Popetschnig (3).
• Corner Kicks: Graceland – 4; MNU – 4.
• Fouls: Graceland – 6; MNU – 6.

Next Game:

Graceland will host its first home conference game on Wednesday, September 18, as they take on Culver-Stockton College. Kickoff is set for 5:00 PM at Graceland's John Rasmussen Soccer Field.