Box Score ABILENE, Texas – The McMurry University women's soccer team faced a tough opponent in the Northeastern (Okla.) State RiverHawks Friday evening at Wilford-Moore Stadium.

Despite falling 2-1 in double overtime, fourth-year coach Alan Riches was particularly optimistic about the outcome.

"Last year at this time, we played them in Tahlequah and had no business being on the field," Riches said after the game. "They pressed early and we had to withstand that and we made them earn it (the win)."

McM only recorded six shots on goal – but made them count.

With one minute remaining in regulation Paige Harwell (Trophy Club, Texas/Northwest HS) hit high-arching shot that sneaked past the goalkeeper to tie it at 1-all.

"I knew going into the end (of the game) we would have a chance," Riches said. "It showed that we had a lot of heart."

A significant reason why McM was able to force overtime was the play of goalkeeper Anissa Arenas (Lubbock, Texas/Coronado HS). It was the second start of her young career and the freshman didn't disappoint and made 15 saves.

"The main goal was to keep the ball out of the center of the field so they couldn't get straight and direct shots…and that's what we pretty much did," Arenas said. "It was just like what we work on in practice."

The RiverHawks' (4-0) Nea Sunila scored halfway through the second sudden-death overtime to clinch the win.

Although disappointed about the loss, Riches saw real progress

"We really gutted it out tonight and we are going in a new direction."

The War Hawks (1-2) return to action Monday against Alcorn State University.