The TCU soccer team lost its only game of the weekend 1-0 against Rice Friday night at the Garvey-Rosenthal Soccer Stadium, dropping their record to 1-2.

Rice won the game simply because its players stepped up to make a difference, Head Coach Dan Abdalla said.

“I think it just came down to individuals,” Abdalla said. “Their individuals stepped up and played to win the game, and our individuals just didn’t step up.”

TCU was out shot 26-9 in the loss, and Abdalla said that was mostly because the Frogs were “significantly outplayed” in the first half. Rice took 14 shots in the first half and continued their onslaught with 12 shots in the second half.

The Owls broke through in the 68th minute when sophomore forward Jessica Howard struck a right-footed shot that found the back of the net. Senior forward Annie Kadota’s corner kick was not cleared from the penalty area, and the ball eventually fell to Howard, who scored the only goal in the match.
TCU freshman goalkeeper Alicen Wright was forced to make nine saves throughout the match, and Abdalla said her performances have been good early in the season.

“Every single game she has given us a chance to win the game,” Abdalla said. “That’s been great to see: just the confidence, as a freshman, that she has had.”

The Frogs will be back in action Friday night when they travel to Texas State. The next game at Garvey-Rosenthal Soccer Stadium is Sunday at 1 p.m. against Missouri.

Notes: Senior forward Jordan Calhoun missed her second straight game for the Frogs after suffering an ankle injury Aug. 19 against Oklahoma State. Abdalla said they wanted to be sure they did not make the injury worse and lose her for more time. Freshman forward Dixie Kurrus sat out during the loss after suffering a head injury Aug. 21 against Lamar. Senior midfielder Kaylie Garcia returned to action against Rice after playing for Mexico in the World University Games. Garcia played 20 minutes. Attendance was 1,587.