COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Air Force women’s soccer (3-1-0) battled from start to finish Thursday night but ultimately fell 2-1 to Texas A&M (3-2-0) at Ellis Field. The Falcons generated 16 shots, putting eight on frame in a tough match against the Aggies.
Annika Jost continued her strong start to the season, scoring her third goal of the year to keep the Falcons within striking distance. Senior Kendall Rippley was relentless in the attacking third, firing a career-high four shots on goal, while goalkeeper Sydney Nelms kept Air Force within reach with a season-best nine saves.
The Falcons came out with attacking intent, putting five shots on target before the 20-minute mark, but could not get past Texas A&M’s keeper. The Aggies then capitalized on their chances, finding the back of the net at the 22′ and 30′ minute marks to take a 2-0 lead.
Air Force came out of the break looking to claw its way back into the match. In the 54th minute, Jost drew a penalty kick and stepped to the spot, and placed her shot into the top-left corner to cut the deficit to 2-1.
With momentum on their side, Air Force continued to press for the equalizer, while the Falcon defense dug in to keep the Aggies from adding to their lead. Despite a late push and chances on goal, the Falcons could not find the second breakthrough as Texas A&M held on for the 2-1 victory.
Up next, the Falcons will head to Denton, TX for a match at North Texas on Sunday August 30 at 7 p.m. CT/6 p.m. MT.