Nov. 4, 2005

Box Score

NATCHITOCHES, La. - A late goal by Texas State's Kayla Thornton was not enough to erase the lead created by Northwestern State (12-5-1 overall, 7-1-0 SLC) as the Demons defeated the Bobcats 3-1 in the semi-final round of the Southland Conference Soccer Tournament on Friday evening.

Thornton's goal, coming with just over three minutes to play, was the only score for the Bobcats (9-10, 6-3 SLC) as they made six shots on goal in the losing effort. Texas State created offensive pressure late in the contest, but were unable to capitalize on chances in front of Demon goalkeeper Johann Klohoker. On the evening, defender Kim Phillips led the offensive efforts for the `Cats, registering four shots and three shots on goal.

Bobcat starting goalkeeper Paige Perriraz made 11 saves before going out with an injury midway through the second half. Junior Brittany Beltramini stepped into goal for Texas State and made a save to keep the Demons from getting their fourth.

For Northwestern State, forward Erin Hebert notched four shots on goal, an unassisted goal and an assist on Heather Penico's game winner. The Demons out shot the Bobcats 18-11, but also committed 22 fouls in the win.

In other SLC action, five-seeded Sam Houston State upset one-seeded Stephen F. Austin 3-1. SFA did not lose or tie a conference game during the regular season.

Northwestern State and Sam Houston State will meet in the Championship match on Sunday at 1 p.m. The winner of that game earns an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament that begins on Nov. 11