VAN METER, IA — The Ballard women's soccer team put together a determined effort on Tuesday night but came up just short in a 2-1 non-conference loss to Van Meter.  

Van Meter struck first with a goal late in the opening half, but Ballard answered early in the second behind senior Kjersten Olson, who scored her first goal of the season. Olson made the most of her lone shot on the night, converting it into Ballard's only tally.

Senior Amelia Faubus was a constant offensive presence, leading the Bombers with five shots, two of which were on goal.  Junior McKenzie Dee was also active in the attacking third, adding four shots with three on frame.  Freshman Maci Harder and sophomore Grace Grundmeyer each tallied two shots, combining for three shots on goal, while junior Anais Goullianne added another shot on target.

Despite the strong second-half push, Van Meter regained the lead midway through the half and held off the Bomber's late pressure.

Defensively, sophomore goalkeeper Evelyn Faubus anchored the backline, helping limit Van Meter to a pair of goals and keeping the Bombers within striking distance.

Ballard now sits at 0-4 (0-1 in conference).

Up Next: The Bombers travel to Newton on Thursday, April 10, looking to break into the win column.