FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. ? On a wet field in Fayetteville, Ark., Austin Peay State University women's soccer team dropped its third straight match, a 2-0 decision to Arkansas, Friday night.

Austin Peay went up against the Southeastern Conference's preseason No. 4 pick Arkansas with six newcomers in the starting lineup. The young Lady Govs battled through a physical match, in which they were outshot, 20-4, including a 6-1 shots on goal disadvantage. The Lady Backs also posted an 8-1 corner kick advantage.

Freshman Kellie Cannon led the Lady Govs offense with two shots, including one from about six feet out on which Arkansas keeper Britni Williams made a great stop to preserve the shutout. Junior Elyse Lovelace also had two shots for the Lady Govs.

Sophomore keeper Michelle Smith had another tough night in net, finishing with four saves while allowing two goals. Williams finished with one save.

Kathleen Paulsen scored the game's first goal in the 35th minute when she took advantage of a one-on-one and fired it past the keeper. Kelley O'Conner added the insurance goal in the 69th minute when she beat the defense for her season's third goal.

 “Our team showed a lot of heart tonight,” head coach Kelley Guth said. “They're a strong team and to come out with so many newcomers in our starting lineup, I think we showed a lot of determination. We hate to lose, but right now we're getting better and preparing for later in the season.”

The Lady Govs wrap up their road trip with a 1 p.m., Sunday, match at Harding in Searcy, Ark.

- AP -