BELMONT, N.C. – In the face of a 3-0 deficit, the Newberry Wolves fought back valiantly, scoring twice in the final ten minutes and just narrowly missing a tying shot after the buzzer to fall to Belmont Abbey 3-2 in the season and conference opener.

Early in the first half, the Crusaders (1-0, 1-0 South Atlantic Conference Carolinas) dominated possession, striking early on a goal from Nicole Wong just six minutes into the game, but the Wolves' (0-1, 0-1 South Atlantic Conference Carolinas) defense stiffened as the game progressed, maintaining the 1-0 deficit heading into the halftime break.

The second half began with much of the same as both teams seemed to play evenly. But the Belmont Abbey attack began to gel as the half progressed, culminating with two goals from Kayley Williams within seven minutes of each other.

The Wolves managed to break through in the 60th minute on a goal by Kristyna Oyola, assisted by Brady Keeler. Soon after, Megan Eisenhardt slotted a goal in the 66th minute after a short corner, allowing Newberry an opportunity to potentially send the game into overtime.

With a corner set up, the buzzer sounded, giving the Wolves one final opportunity to even the score. But the potential equalizer drifted wide to preserve Belmont Abbey's one-goal victory.

The Wolves increased their production in every offensive category in the second half, finishing the game with a 17-14 shot advantage over the Crusaders, but the 3-0 Belmont Abbey lead ultimately proved insurmountable.

Keeler and Farai Kawonde led Newberry with two shots on goal each, while Belmont Abbey's Kayley Williams led all players by placing all three of her shots on target. Newberry goalkeeper Allison Davis totaled seven saves while Belmont Abbey's Paige Hinds managed eight.

The Wolves are set to face non-conference foe Mercyhurst at home in their next contest on Sunday, Sep. 2 at 1:00 p.m.