DENVER – The South Dakota soccer team could not overcome a two-goal deficit Friday night at Denver in a 2-0 loss in the Summit League opener.
 
The Pioneers, the preseason Summit League favorites, tallied two first half goals to improve to 5-4-2 overall and 1-0 in league action. The Coyotes fall to 5-4-2 overall and 0-1 in league play.
 
Samantha Feller scored the first goal of the contest in the 21^st minute as she received a cross from Natalie Beckman and headed the ball in from six yards out. The second goal came off the foot of Hannah Hiatt in the 35^th minute, which was set up from a free kick from midfield.
 
South Dakota totaled seven shots in the match, led by junior Amanda Carpio with two. Five other Coyotes attempted one shot including sophomore Dani Brown with a shot on goal. Other Coyotes with shot attempts include freshman Taylor Cotter, senior Tayler Karas along with Courtney Stodola and Kellee Willer, who are both juniors.
 
Although both teams combined for 19 total shots, the game had just four combined shots on goal. Parker Rytz had one save for USD while Brittany Wilson had one save for Denver.
 
The Coyotes return to First Bank & Trust Soccer Complex on Thursday hosting Oral Roberts. Kickoff is slated for 4 p.m.