Wooster's Kelsey Clark sent this shot on goal during the 34th minute of Saturday's action.

WOOSTER, Ohio – The College of Wooster women's soccer team gave a spirited effort throughout the second half, but was ultimately unable to overcome a 3-0 halftime deficit to rival Wittenberg University as the Fighting Scots wound up on the short end of a 4-1 North Coast Athletic Conference match on Saturday afternoon at Carl Dale Field.

Down by three at the half, Wooster (9-7-1, 3-3-1 NCAC) came out with renewed enthusiasm, resulting in four shots the opening 12 minutes of the second, highlighted by a one-on-one opportunity with the goalie for Katherine Tuttle, however, her attempt to the right was met by a diving stop.

The Scots continued to make runs into the offensive end, and in the 68th minute, Kennedy Payne touched a through pass between two defenders to Sophia Garfinkel, leading to another one-on-one with the 'keeper, and Garfinkel delivered on a low shot inside the left post to make it 3-1. It marked her third goal this season and eighth of the senior's career.

With a large "Senior Day" crowd on hand, Wooster attempted to build on the momentum, with senior Jessica Friesen sending one on goal during the 71st minute, but that was saved, and five minutes later, Wittenberg (8-5-1, 4-2-0 NCAC) regained control when Michelle Brunswick kicked in a rebound goal after her header had initially been saved.

The Scots kept competing hard, as they accounted for the last two shots of the game, including a rip by Tuttle from outside the box that the Tigers' goalie had to leap for to save.

Wittenberg scored less than two minutes into the action, then followed with first half goals during the 28th and 32nd minutes. Kate Burns tallied one goal and one assist for the Tigers and their 'keeper, Alexa Murrietta, produced seven saves overall.

In addition to Friesen, Garfinkel, and Tuttle, making their final regular season appearance at Carl Dale Field for Wooster were Crystal Chavez, Brenna Coolbaugh, Gabi Morrison, and Kimberly Seidell.

Next, the Scots head to Allegheny College (12-5, 5-1 NCAC) on Tuesday.