ABBOTSFORD, B.C. – Northwest University took a 2-1 loss at the hand of Fraser Valley Sunday evening, starting the women's soccer season.
 
"We started the game fairly slow and were outworked in the first half, though unlucky to be down by two," remarked NU coach Bryan Chud.
 
The Cascades took a 1-0 lead in the 10^th minute with a goal from Simi Lehal and went up 2-0 on a Sarah Parker goal seven minutes later.
 
Rylee Rassier's athletic efforts got NU on the scoreboard with a solo goal just after halftime.
 
"In the second half, we responded well, got an early goal, and played with much more desire and heart," said Chud. "We are improving every game and will work hard as individuals and as a team."
 
Kat Sanchez is believed to have collected eight saves in the loss for Northwest, but stats were not readily available.
 
The Eagles scrimmage on Thursday at Whitworth in Spokane before opening the home portion of the schedule on Saturday with a 3:30 p.m. date with Central Washington.