SAN ANTONIO, Texas (September 7, 2016) -- Two freshman and a junior claimed their first goals of the 2016 season against I-35 rival St. Mary's in San Antonio. Mariana Avina, Cio Bargallo and Yolanda Gonzalez each contributed offensive efforts in the Dustdevils 3-7 loss to the Rattlers on Wednesday night. The contest served as the first Heartland Conference matchup for both teams, moving TAMIU Women's Soccer to 0-3-0 overall, and 0-1-0 in conference play.

Striking first for the Dustdevils was Freshman Cio Bargallo, who chip shot over the Rattlers' keeper from 18 yards out in the 17th minute. Monica Castro was recorded with the assist on Bargallo's goal. With consistent resilience through TAMIU's first three contest, the goal served as Bargallo's first as a Dustdevil and at the NCAA level. With the goal, the Dustdevils had tied the contest at 1-1. The Rattlers would go on to add four goals to their side of the scoresheet, the stats reading 1-5 Dustdevils after the first half.

Opening up the scoring in the second half was Junior Yolanda Gonzalez, who was able to get the ball past the Rattlers' keeper in the 55th minute. Gonzalez tallied her first goal of the season, while Samantha Ruiz captured her first assist.

Foul trouble haunted the TAMIU team, as two yellow cards were awarded to Samantha Ruiz (46') and Kiyana Lopez (65').

The Dustdevils had the final say in the contest, as Freshman Mariana Avina broke away from the pack and grabbed her first collegiate goal in the 86th minute. With a pass from midfield, Monica Castro collected her second assist of the night on Avina's goal.

Despite the scoring, the Dustdevils out-shot the Rattlers, 27 to 12. Freshman Goalkeeper Kiyana Lopez collected 3 saves throughout the night.

"The score does not represent what went on during the game," said Head Coach Felipe Arias. He praised his team's efforts by adding, "If you look at the statistics, we controlled possession, shots and corners."

Up next, TAMIU will open up regular season play at home in a non-conference contest against Midwestern State. Faceoff against the Mustangs is set for 7PM CST on Friday, September 9 at Dustdevil Field.

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