Lady Cats Drop Home Match to Phoenix

MCKENZIE, Tenn. – The Bethel Lady Wildcats played host to Cumberland University Friday night in McKenzie. The Phoenix prevailed, winning 6-1 over the Cats.

Cumberland (9-3-1, 2-0-1 MSC) came out fast, scoring three goals in the first half before adding three more in the second. Bethel (2-8-1, 1-2 MSC) fought and broke through late with a well-crafted goal from Audrey LaRue in the 78th minute, assisted by Jacqueline Carbajal.

LaRue's finish came off a counterattack that gave the Wildcats their lone goal of the night — one of seven total shots and four on frame for the visitors. Bethel also generated offensive pressure with seven corner kicks and 10 fouls drawn, showing effort in the attacking third.

Cumberland was led by Olga Wallemo, who scored twice in the opening 17 minutes, while Kadisha Martina, Miku Kayama, Adelyn Drane, and Victoria Collins each added a goal. The Phoenix outshot Bethel 16–7 overall and 11–1 in shots on goal.

In goal for Bethel, Estelle Olive made five saves while facing heavy pressure across 71 minutes of play before giving way to Alba Lopez Guerrero in the closing stretch.

After the match, Coach Misty Aird said he was encouraged by his team's effort despite the scoreline:

"Cumberland is one of the most balanced teams in our league. Our group continued to compete and create chances in the second half. I'm proud of Audrey for finding the back of the net and the team for keeping their energy high until the end."

Bethel returns to action Friday, October 17 traveling to Georgetown to face the Tigers.