A tough early season schedule seems to be weighing heavily on the Missouri Southern Lions, as a close home loss to Southwest Baptist dropped the Lions to 0-4-1 on the season.

“The season is a little slow going for us, we’re not getting the results we want yet, but I’m still very pleased with the effort being put out by the team,” Head Coach Alese Woolard said.

The Lions began their first of three straight home games as they played host to the Bearcats of Southwest Baptist, a game in which the Lions scored in the first 15 seconds of the game.

A quick goal from the Lions’ junior forward Megan Stueve put the team out in front early, but in the 29th minute the Bearcats would equal the score off of a free kick.

Later in the first half, the Bearcats would strike again as they would score off a bouncing rebound in the 38th minute.

The Lions senior goalie Randi Russell did manage to buckle down and shutout the Bearcats in the second half, however the Lions couldn’t find the back of the net either as they fell 2-1.

“We are creating lots of opportunities and playing more consistent with each other, just have to finish our chances,” Woolard said.

The Lions find themselves in a tough conference, as Woolard mentioned, the MIAA potentially sends two to three teams to the national tournament each year.

The Lions opening conference play against Truman on Sept. 22, it is a good chance for the team to kick off their conference record on a positive note.

The Lions will have the opportunity to try and notch a win, as they are playing on their home confines for their next two games.

“We have been playing very stiff competition early this season. I believe it will set ourselves up to be ready for conference games,” Woolard said.

“The way we are playing does not reflect our record. Once we start playing consistently, we will have better chances at winning games,” Woolard said.

“I can see that the team is starting to mesh together and play together as a unit,” Woolard said.

The Lions hosted Truman State last night but scores were unavailable at press time.

Southern will also welcome the Central Missouri Jennies tomorrow.