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RICHMOND, Ky. – The Eastern Kentucky University soccer team was defeated by Evansville, 3-0, on Friday afternoon at EKU Soccer Field.

With the loss, EKU drops to 0-7-1 on the season, while Evansville improves to 6-2-1.

Evansville's Kayla Smith scored an unassisted goal 29 minutes into the game to give the Purple Aces a 1-0 advantage. The Colonels stayed within a goal for most of the game, and nearly tied it on several occasions; however, Evansville's Abby Springer and Kaddy Dieringer scored goals within two minutes of each other in the 79th and 81st minute to effectively put the game away.

"We outshot Evansville tonight, and we had three or four chances that I am not sure how the ball did not go into their net," head coach Melissa Barnes said. "So, we attacked well and created chances; we looked more dangerous going forward. Evansville took their chances tonight and we did not. We will continue to get better and we immediately look forward to putting it all together against Jacksonville State."

Eastern outshot Evansville, 18-15, in the game, and senior Nikki Donnelly delivered a stellar individual effort, attempting a season-high eight shots, four of which were on goal. Freshman Cassie Smith also put together some dangerous runs, attempting five shots, two of which were on target.

Smith finished with a goal and two assists for the Purple Aces.

Seniors Lauren Fant and Katie Collar, junior Paige Larkin and freshman Mikayla Brillon all went the distance on EKU's backline, while senior Kristan Paynter also played all 90 minutes of the game in the midfield.

Sophomore Samm Melton, who took over for an injured Erika Wolfer last Friday, played all 90 minutes in goal for the Colonels and made six saves.

EKU will be given a clean slate next weekend, as the Colonels begin conference play at Jacksonville State on Friday, Sept. 27. First touch is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.