BEAUMONT, Texas – Resiliency and defense were the two key factors for the Lamar University soccer team as it overcame a one-goal deficit to knock off McNeese 2-1 in Sunday's Battle of the Border matchup. By winning the match, the Cardinals (4-6-4, 2-2-2) remain locked in the eighth and final seed of the Southland Conference tournament picture with only four games left.
 
LU edged out the Cowgirls 11-9 in the shots category despite both having seven on goal. Isela Ramirez scored on her only shot attempt of the match while Cena Carlson, who netted the game-winner with a penalty kick, posted a team-high four shots. Taylor Howard tied her season-high with six saves in goal while facing nine shots.
 
The Cardinals started the contest with four early shots. The Cowgirls struck first on a Karlyn Judge header in the 25th minute. Undeterred, Big Red had a response in the 35th minute as Arely Alaniz connected with Ramirez, who used her right foot to level the match 1-1. LU ended the first half outshooting McNeese 6-4.
 
Each side had two chances early in the second half for the go-ahead goal. Then, a big break happened in the 62nd minute as Ramirez drew a foul in the box, which awarded the Cardinals their first penalty kick of the season. Carlson took the penalty and struck the ball to the right side for a 2-1 lead. The Cowgirls had two chances to equalize over the final 28 minutes but were denied by LU's swarming defense.
 
The Cardinals hit the road for three straight games beginning with a critical match against Houston Christian, who trail LU by three points for the SLC tournament. That match will kick off at 7:00 p.m.

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