CANYON, Texas – The Lady Buffs of West Texas A&M couldn't find an offensive rhythm on Wednesday afternoon as they fell to the Midwestern State Mustangs, 2-0 at Stang Park in Lone Star Conference action in Wichita Falls, Texas.
 
The match began with both teams striving to gain an early advantage. WT had a notable opportunity early in the period with a corner kick at the 10:27 mark, followed by a shot from Alair Posard that went over the top. Despite aggressive play, the Lady Buffs were unable to convert these opportunities into a lead.
 
Midwestern State broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Alinessa Salinas scored, putting the home team ahead. WT's defense, anchored by Franciezca Blancaflor, managed several saves, including a crucial one against a shot by Ashlynn Knight. The period concluded with the Lady Buffs trailing 1-0, as they were unable to find an equalizer before the break.
 
The second period commenced with WT looking to shift the momentum after a contested first half. The Lady Buffs quickly found themselves in an offsides position, but continued to press forward with Lawrencia Yeboah and Benedicta Swatson each attempting shots early in the half. Despite a series of fouls disrupting their rhythm, goalkeeper Blancaflor made crucial saves against Midwestern State, notably stopping efforts from Allessandra Romano and Jimena Rodriguez.
 
As the period progressed, WT faced defensive pressure, with Midwestern State capitalizing on a goal by Lillia Besedin in the 76th minute, assisted by Mable Pruter, extending the Mustangs' lead. The Lady Buffs continued to challenge, but the period ended with Midwestern State maintaining their 2-0 advantage.
 
Blancaflor recorded five saves while facing 15 shots on goal, allowing two goals in 83 minutes of play. Sydney Nanz appeared in goal for nearly seven minutes, facing a single shot without recording a save. Swatson contributed offensively with two shots. Posard and Mollie Ferro each took one shot, though none were on target.
 
Besedin made a significant impact for Midwestern State with one goal and a team-high five shots, two of which were on target. Salinas secured the game-winning goal, contributing both of her shots as shots on goal. Pruter added to the offensive effort with one assist. In goal, Tanner Sorenson recorded a shutout, facing five shots but not needing to make any saves.
 
The Lady Buffs return home on Saturday afternoon as they host the Patriots of UT Tyler with kickoff set for 1:00 p.m. at The Pitch in Canyon.