The University of Mary Washington women's soccer team dropped a 1-0 decision to top-ranked Messiah University on Saturday afternoon at the Battleground. The Eagles slip to 1-3 on the season.

The Eagles came out strong and carried strong possession throughout the contest, and held the Falcons off the scoreboard throughout the first half. In a very evenlyplayed first half, the Falcons held a slim 5-3 edge in shots, with each team picking up one corner kick.

Messiah found the back of the net at 61:01, to go ahead with what would be the game's only goal. The Falcons turned up the pressure offensively in the second half, outshooting the Eagles, 11-1, but UMW goalkeeper Allison Nork came up with several outstanding saves, and also grabbed several dangerous balls from harm's way on corner kicks and crossing balls.

In all, Messiah led in shots, 16-4, as well as corner kicks, 6-2. Nork made eight saves on the day for the Eagles' defense.

Mary Washington will return to action next Saturday when they visit Virginia Wesleyan University at 7:00 p.m.