The BG women’s soccer team dropped two close matches this weekend, losing to Central Michigan 1-0 on Friday and falling to Eastern Michigan 3-2 on Sunday. The close scores and strong play of the BG side gave the team a shot of confidence as they continue to search for their next win midway through the season.

Friday’s match against Central closely mirrored many games played by the Falcons this season. Despite a strong defensive effort, the squad allowed their opposition to score and could not answer back themselves.

“It was pretty much the same old story” head coach Andy Richards said. “We’ve had some great chances that we couldn’t put away.”

Richards added that the strong winds were a deciding factor in the game.

Central’s lone goal was scored by Rosamaria Rago 36:59 into the first half. Rago booted a high shot from just outside the box. BG keeper Ali Shingler got a piece of the ball, but was unable to keep it from bouncing in off the crossbar. Shingler had eight saves in the contest.

Sunday’s match against defending regular season Mid-American Conference champion Eastern Michigan was a much different story. The Falcons had a strong game both offensively and defensively.

“It was a completely different picture,” Richards said. “It was the first time I was completely happy with the full 90 minutes.”

Juniors Molly Bremen and Samantha Meister led the offensive charge for BG, both scoring goals in the first half. Tiernay Tilford had assists on both goals. Richards expressed pride in the performance of Bremen, Meister, and the rest of the Falcon squad.

“Everybody played very well. The field players in particular did a fantastic job,” Richards said.

Richards also noted that Jenifer Kernahan made an appearance in goal for BG in the first half before she left the game with an injury. Richards said Kernahan gave BG some needed stability.

After Bremen opened the scoring for either side, Eastern’s Sara Schiffbauer netted two consecutive first half goals for the Eagles, followed by another goal by teammate Jessica Hupe before Meister netted her shot.

Shingler had one save in the match and Kernahan had three saves.

As the Falcons have seen before, the officials played a huge role in the game’s final decision. BG had two controversial goals disallowed that would have made a dramatic difference in the match. Still, Richards was pleased with the effort and play shown by the team.

“The performance of the team was much, much better. [This game] gave us some much needed confidence for the second half of our season,” Richards said.

A boost of confidence may be just what the Falcons need as they hit the road again next weekend. They will face Cleveland State on Friday and MAC opponent Akron on Sunday.