It was late game heartbreak for the University of Oregon women’s soccer team in their only preseason match of the season. The Ducks lost 1-0 against UC Davis after watching the Aggies net a goal in the 84th minute of the game.

Lauren Holden, goalkeeper for the Ducks, almost escaped with the clean sheet, but could only watch when the Aggies two star players connected for the winning goal. The Aggies struck on a quick counter-attack up the sideline when Ashley Edwards fed the ball into sophomore forward Sienna Drizin, who broke the tie with a beautiful finish from seven yards out. Despite giving up the goal, Holden had a strong performance ending the game with five big saves.

Though they were never able to connect for a goal of their own, the Ducks did a good job generating quality shot attempts against the Aggie defense. They finished the game with a total of 12 shots, five of which were on frame. Junior forward Bree Pugh led the way with two shots on goal.

Oregon struggled with committing fouls, allowing UC Davis to set up its attack from set pieces. This kept the Ducks pushed back into its own defensive half, hurting their chances to generate quick counter-attacks. Two Duck players were also shown yellow cards by the referee; defenders Ashlee Schulz in the 12th minute and Riley Smith in the 78th minute.

Despite the loss there were plenty of positive notes the Ducks can build upon come regular season. Going into the game, new head coach Kat Mertz had concerns about the tactical ability of her team offensively.

“We need to have more of a thought going forward. We need to be organized and disciplined,” Mertz told The Register-Guard.

Though there is still plenty of room for improvement, the Ducks did look to move the ball and make runs to open the field for each other, something that will help win  games in the long run.

The Ducks will next take the field at home August 23 at 5 p.m. against Portland State, the first game of the regular season.