RICHMOND, Ky. – The Eastern Kentucky University women's soccer team dropped its home opener to Western Carolina, 2-0, on Sunday afternoon. It was the Colonels' first loss at EKU Soccer Field since October 30, 2011.

For the second consecutive game, EKU (0-2-0) attempted more shots (14) and corner kicks (7) than its opponent but failed to capitalize. WCU (2-0-0), meanwhile, took advantage of a late-first half free kick and then put the game away early in the second with another goal.

The game was scoreless until sophomore Mikala Ferguson was whistled for a foul with less than 30 seconds to play in the first half. Christina White then lofted a free kick, which Kasey Cooke headed into the net to put the Catamounts up just before halftime.

Eight minutes into the second half, WCU added an insurance goal as Markie Studnicky received a pass from Kelly Pannell and buried a shot from about 10 yards out to make it 2-0.

EKU attempted to rally, attempting five corner kicks in the final 20 minutes of play, but the Colonels could convert none of them.

"We are disappointed to have to lost to WCU, but they are a team that has improved tremendously," head coach Melissa Barnes said. "Our team continues to improve daily, but we have to compete for 90 minutes. Now we have to prepare for a very good team in Kentucky."

Senior Lauren Fant, junior Emily D'Italia and freshman Mikayla Brillon all went the distance for EKU. Fant led all players in the game with four shots.

Sophomore Erika Wolfer played all 90 minutes in the net for EKU and made six saves.

EKU returns to action at Kentucky on Friday, August 30, at 5:00 p.m.