Lamoni, Iowa – The Graceland University women's soccer team suffered a tough 4-2 loss to Mount Mercy University on Wednesday in Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) action at John Rasmussen Soccer Complex. Despite their determined efforts, the Yellowjackets were unable to overcome defensive lapses and missed opportunities in front of goal.

Mount Mercy capitalized on Graceland's early defensive struggles, scoring the opening goal in the 13th minute courtesy of Esther Attwood. Graceland responded quickly, with forward Emily Carmen finding the back of the net just a minute later to level the match at 1-1.

However, Mount Mercy's counter-attack proved relentless. They reclaimed the lead in the 23rd minute through a solo effort by Lauren O'Toole, and Attwood added her second goal of the game in the 34th minute, putting Graceland down 3-1 before halftime.

Graceland's Cassidy Andrews brought the Yellowjackets back within one, netting a crucial goal just before the break in the 39th minute. With the score at 3-2, the Yellowjackets looked poised to turn the match around, but several missed opportunities in the second half prevented Graceland from finding an equalizer.

Head coach Randall Porter expressed his frustration with the team's inability to execute in key moments. "We didn't play to the level we are capable of today. Our focus has to be better, especially in the critical moments," said Porter. "I'm not satisfied with this result. This team has the talent to win, but right now, we're not playing with the level of consistency or intensity that we need. Every game is an opportunity to improve, and we're going to keep pushing until we get this right."

The Yellowjackets pressed hard in the second half, registering seven shots on goal, but Mount Mercy's goalkeeper, Manuela Gutierrez, was up to the task, making several crucial saves, including a penalty kick attempt by Chloe Montera in the 87th minute. Graceland was left to rue their missed chances, particularly as Mount Mercy sealed the victory with a fourth goal in the 76th minute from Hannah Dodds, extinguishing any hopes of a late comeback.

Graceland goalkeeper Maggie Peterson was tested frequently, making two saves, but Mount Mercy's efficient finishing kept the pressure on throughout the match.

"We need to be sharper across the board, from defense to our attack," Porter continued. "We'll go back to the drawing board and work on the things that didn't go right today. Our goal is to make sure we are a better team for the next match."

Graceland will look to bounce back on Saturday, October 5, when they host Benedictine College in the annual Homecoming match at John Rasmussen Soccer Complex. The match is scheduled for 5 p.m. and offers a prime opportunity for the Yellowjackets to regain their momentum in front of their home crowd.

For more information on Graceland athletics, visit Graceland Yellowjackets.