MONROE, La. – The ULM soccer team (6-3) took their first home loss from Central Arkansas (1-5) on Sunday afternoon, 3-2. The teams were evenly matched throughout the game, but a stray penalty kick and a late red card solidified the Bears' first win.
 
The first half was symmetrical among both teams, ULM holding 51% possession. In the 18^th minute, Giulia Franco broke free, scoring the first goal of the match. This was her second goal of the season and of her career. Goalkeeper Jennifer Handy was credited with four saves on the half. The Warhawks were able to maintain the lead for 25 minutes, until Kelly Van Gundy of Central Arkansas tied it up, 1-1. This was the Bears' first goal since Aug. 16. 
 
The second half was just as close as the first, as both teams continued to fight for possession. Just over two minutes into the half, Skylar Blaise was able to knock the ball into the net, taking the lead for the Warhawks. This was her third goal of the season, her seventh of her career. The goal was assisted by Kai Douglas, her career first. This was also the first assisted goal for the Warhawks since Sept. 1 at Little Rock.
 
The lead was short-lived, however, as UCA's Sophia Backstrom scored in the 54^th minute to tie the match, 2-2. Just ten minutes later, Lea Duus Madsen knocked a penalty kick past Handy, scoring the game winner for the Bears. 
 
The Warhawks and the Bears tied in shots, 12-12 and shots on goal, 9-9. Blaise led in shots with five and three on target, Emelie Kobler racking up two. Central Arkansas led in saves, 7-6 and corner kicks, 4-2 in the match. This was another foul-ridden match for both teams, as UCA racked up 17 and ULM was credited with 18, including a red card in the 74^thminute going to Ally Richardson. 


ULM soccer will hit the road for two more matches to open Sun Belt play. They will take on the Troy Trojans in Troy, Ala. on Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.