FARGO, N.D. - Western Illinois saw its season-high seven-match unbeaten streak end with a 1-0 loss to North Dakota State in Summit League action on Friday, Oct. 8.

The Fighting Leathernecks (6-4-3, 2-1 Summit) lost for the first time in their past seven regular-season league matches, a streak that dated back to last year.

North Dakota State (6-4-3, 1-2 Summit) took an early lead when Quin Ryan found the back of the net in the 15th minute and would hold Western scoreless the rest of the way to pick up its first win in league play.

"We played a very tough team today and I thought we played them well," said head coach Tony Guinn. "North Dakota State is a very well-coached team and it is always a challenge to win a road match in league play."

The Leathernecks were unable to muster much of an offensive effort as the Bison allowed just four shots throughout the match. Western was able to put three of the shots on target but could not put one past NDSU goalkeeper Kathy Kelsey.

"I think we're still playing at a very high level," Guinn said. "Our team was playing their best soccer of the season coming into this weekend and I thought we put forth another good effort today."

Despite the lack of offense, Western Illinois looked like it found an equalizer just seconds before halftime, but the would-be goal was waved off on an offside call. A second goal was called back in the 89th minute due to a handball.

"We just didn't get the breaks that you need to win today," Guinn said. "We were unlucky a few times and that hurt us. Sunday's match will be tough so we'll have to put this behind us and get ready for South Dakota State."

The Leathernecks were outshot by a 14 to 4 margin, but nearly matched the Bison in shots on goal (5 to 3). Western was awarded two corner kicks, both in the first half while NDSU was given three corners, all in the second half.

Laura Atkinson (5-3-3) suffered her first loss in goal since late August despite making five saves. Katie Condon, Kelly Diershow and Nora Potempa each recorded a shot on goal.

The Leathernecks will continue their swing through the Dakotas with a match at South Dakota State at 1 p.m. on Sunday. Western will return home next weekend with matches against Oral Roberts and Centenary.