Box Score MONROE, La. -- In her first game as a member of the Mississippi Valley State soccer team, Rita Gyasi proved to be a defensive mastermind against Louisiana Monroe.

The native of Ghana finished with 14 saves and gave up just three goals against a tough La.-Monroe team on Friday in a 3-1 loss. It marked the final non-conference for the Devilettes, who will host new SWAC member Howard on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 1 p.m.

Valley attempted 12 shots including seven on goal. Nykosi Simmons scored MVSU's lone goal using an assist from Hailey Beekman at the 34th minute that tied the game one. ULM, however, punched in two additional goals in the second half -- one near the 55th minute and the final goal near the 80th minute.

MVSU's Beekman and Simmons combined for 10 shot attempts Josee Primeau and Ernestina Abamila also each accounted for a shot attempt. A little after the 38th minute, Beekman's shot on goal went wide left. Primeau's shot on goal came near at the 60:19 mark but was saved by ULM's Katherine Werther.

Following Valley's game against Howard on Sunday, Sept. 28, the Devilettes will continue a five-game homestand by hosting Jackson State on October 3 at 7 p.m.