The women’s soccer team is out for respect this weekend.

After starting the season ranked No. 19 in the nation, they have lost just one game and dropped out of the top 25.

“The coaches poll is exactly that, it is very subjective,” said Trevor Waschman head women’s soccer coach.

The Lions, who are currently 5-1-1, did not receive any votes in the last poll. They play host to eigth-ranked Central Missouri tonight at Hal Bodon Field.

“I think if we beat them we’ll get a little more respect,” Waschman said.

The Lions have only dropped one game this season. Despite this one loss, Waschman believes that there is always room for improvement.

“I think we haven’t played our best yet,” Waschman said.

If the Lions haven’t played their best soccer yet, then the rest of the MIAA might be in trouble.

In the first seven games of the season, the Lions already have scored 16 goals while only allowing five. Junior All-American forward Nikki Llewellyn has already scored six goals with one assist. Senior goalkeeper Kaney Tyler already has three clean sheets.

Central Missouri is led by sophomore forward Melanie Hall and junior midfielder Carrie Twellman with four and three goals respectively. Senior goalkeeper Elizabeth Casey has played three games this year for the Jennies and has yet to allow a goal.

Saturday the Lions will take on another MIAA foe. The Missouri Western Lady Griffons will be in town.

Western is led by senior midfielder Meigan Soo. She currently leads the Griffons with four goals including one game winner. At goalkeeper, senior Shaylyn Milbourn is currently averaging 1.84 goals per game.

“The goal is to play the same no matter who you play,” said Waschman about not letting up on a less dangerous opponent.

“We’ve got enough respect that they’re going to play us hard.”

Western is currently 2-6-0.

The beginning of both the Central and Western games are set for 4 p.m. at Hal Bodon Field.

Admission is free for anyone wanting to attend.