LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University Yellowjackets women's soccer team suffered a conference setback Wednesday afternoon, falling 8-1 to visiting Park University in Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) action at the Rasmussen Sports Complex.

Graceland (4-4-3, 1-3-1 HAAC) opened scoring early, as junior midfielder Chloe Montera capitalized just 2:30 into the match with an unassisted finish. However, Park (4-3-2, 2-2-2 HAAC) responded immediately and dominated the remainder of the contest with eight unanswered goals.

Graceland was outshot 23-9 overall and 16-5 in shots on goal. Despite the scoreline, starting goalkeeper Alexia Johnson registered eight saves in 45 minutes of play, absorbing a relentless offensive surge from the Pirates.

Montera's strike was the lone highlight for the Yellowjackets, who managed four corner kicks and placed five shots on target. Sophomore defender Jordan Dingman and midfielder Sierra Flores each created attacking opportunities but were denied by Park's keepers.

Park's attack was led by Lilli Porsch and Patrycia Kozak, each scoring twice. Emma Le added two goals of her own, while Kylee Smith and Annalena Penshorn capped off the scoring in the second half. Graceland allowed four goals in each period as the Pirates' high-pressure approach overwhelmed the back line.

"We were second-best in too many phases of the game today," said Graceland head coach Randall Porter. "There's no sugar-coating it. We were exposed defensively, and our decision-making in possession let us down. Still, this group has shown resilience before, and I believe we'll respond the right way in training."

Graceland will look to bounce back in its next match on Saturday, Oct. 11, when the Yellowjackets host Central Methodist University (MO) at 1:00 p.m. CDT at the Rasmussen Sports Complex in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland women's soccer and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.