Fatima matched up with Battle through more than 100 minutes on Thursday before falling 2-1 in penalty kicks, then on Monday lost 6-4 loss to Stover.

“A loss is never easy, and it hurts even more when it comes down to PKs,” said Coach Katie Hudspeth. “The girls fought hard the entire game, and all 10 players who stepped up in the shootout did an incredible job. Proud of their effort, heart, and resilience every step of the way.”

Lauren Stuecken scored Fatima’s goal against Battle, helping the Lady Comets force a 1-1 tie at the end of regulation. After two 10-minute overtime periods failed to produce a golden goal, the game moved to penalty kicks.

Battle and Fatima remained tied after the first five shooters, then stayed even through the next five. Battle finally prevailed in sudden-death penalty kicks.

Caroline Neubert recorded nine saves, Maura Falter added three, and Kacie Haller and Lilly Borgmeyer each had one.

Neubert said the pressure-filled finish gave her valuable experience in her first time as keeper in a PK shootout.  “I’m glad to have the experience, and now I’m as confident as ever in my abilities,” she said.

Coach Kelley-Marie Wibberg said Fatima gave more than what was asked. “Every game, I ask these girls for 80 minutes of hard, smartly played soccer,” Wibberg said. “They met and exceeded that tonight by more than I ever imagined. Moments like this hurt, but they also define you in ways you don’t expect. Our players showed toughness, unity, and courage in a high-pressure situation. We’ll learn from it and come back stronger because of it.”

Fatima dropped a 6-4 decision on Monday to Stover despite two goals each from Stuecken and Abby Rogers.

Neubert counted 29 saves, while Falter added five.

Rogers said Fatima’s effort was evident despite the final score. “Everybody on the team played their hardest, and it really showed,” she said. “Even though we didn’t have the outcome that we wanted, I am still so proud of everyone and their efforts!”

Stuecken said the Lady Comets continued to show growth. “Even though we didn’t win, we are still proud of how we worked together with teamwork,” she said. “You can really see the improvement we have made this season in how we play.”

Hudspeth said injuries affected Fatima, but the team continued to compete.

“Though the outcome wasn’t in our favor and injuries took a toll, the team showed grit, stood together, and competed hard for 80 minutes,” Hudspeth said.