The Gustavus women's soccer team opened the 2010 season with a 3-0 loss to non-conference opponent UW-Stevens Point on Wednesday afternoon in Stevens Point, Wis.  UW-Stevens Point forward Angela Gallow recorded two goals in the match, while goalkeeper Liz Hunter made four saves on her way to the shutout.

Forward Kristi Nickels got the Pointers out to a fast start when she found the back of the net just 49 seconds into the first half on a freekick. Mary Jean Cornelius was credited with the assist on the first goal of the 2010 season.  The Pointers out shot the Gusties 11-3 in the first half.

The remaining two Pointer goals of the game were both scored by Angela Gallow. She scored in the 17th minute on an assist from Lauryn Semling, and again in the 62nd minute on an assist from Hillary Sauer.  Gustavus held the shots advantage in the second half 5-3.

The Gusties struggled on the attack recording 8 shots on net compared to the 14 shots recorded by Steven's Point. Gustavus goalkeeper Chelsea Bayer suffered the loss in nets, giving up three goals and making five saves.

"If we continue to put our effort and concentration into playing to our potential, to be the best we can be, I don't care what the scoreboard says," said head coach Mike Stehlik at the conclusion of the match.  "At the end of the game, in my book, we are going to be winners."

The Gusties will look to rebound this weekend as they are set to play a pair of matches against non-conference opponents on Saturday and Sunday in Duluth, Minn.  On Saturday, Gustavus will take on Northland College at 4:30 p.m., and on Sunday, the Gusties will play St. Scholastica at 4:30 p.m.  Both matches will take place on the campus of the College of St. Scholastica.