CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The Western Illinois women's soccer team saw its five match regular-season unbeaten streak come to an end in a 1-0 loss at Austin Peay, Friday, Aug. 27.

The Fighting Leathernecks (0-1-1) fell behind when the Lady Govs (3-0-0) converted a penalty kick in the 44th minute and were unable to convert on limited scoring chances the rest of the match.

It was Western's first regular-season loss since a 2-1 defeat at the hands of North Dakota State on Oct. 18, 2009.

"Austin Peay provided great competition for us today," said Western Illinois head coach Tony Guinn. "Their coaching staff has done an outstanding job turning their program around."

The Lady Govs took the momentum early by taking six shots in the first 37 minutes of play, but Leatherneck goalkeeper Laura Atkinson made three saves to keep the match scoreless until Austin Peay was awarded a penalty at the 43:25 mark.

Tatiana Ariza tucked the ball in the lower right corner, just past the outstretched hand of a diving Atkinson, to score what would be the game-winner.

The Leathernecks would find their first real scoring opportunity in the 61st minute when a corner kick by Nora Potempa bounced into the box before being collected by Lady Govs goalkeeper Haylee Shoaff.

Western would have one final quality chance in the closing seconds when Kelly Diershow dribbled down the left side of the Austin Peay defense, but was denied a chance for the equalizer at the 89:22 mark.

Atkinson (0-1-1) suffered the loss despite making six crucial saves to keep Western's hopes alive until the end. Carley Newman (3-0-0) picked up the win after playing the first 45 minutes of the match, though she did not face a shot on goal.

The Leathernecks were outshot by a 14 to eight margin, including a seven to four deficit in shots on goal. Western was awarded five corner kicks, all in the first half, to Austin Peay's seven.

"We're really looking forward to coming out and playing again in a few days," Guinn said. "Austin Peay have been great tournament hosts so far."

Western Illinois returns to action against Miami University at 11 a.m. on Sunday.