MINNEAPOLIS -- The Alverno College women's soccer team fell to the Rams of North Central University (Minn.), 2-1, in its first contest of the season in Minneapolis.

North Central scored a quick first half goal at 10:30 take a quick 1-0 lead. About 24 minutes into the second half they added to the lead, going up 2-0. The Inferno then responded with a goal from sophomore forward Ellie LaFond (Waukesha, Wis./West) at the 42:19 mark.

LaFond had another breakaway in the second half, perhaps giving the Inferno a chance to tie, but she was tripped as North Central was given a yellow card on the play.

"It was an extremely physical match in tough heat. We just couldn't put the ball in the back of the net," said Alverno head coach Angela Zuñiga-Meyer.

Alverno had only 9 shots on goal, compared to North Central's 16. LaFond led Alverno with eight shots and Ashley Million (Waukesha, Wis./North) also had four.

Jess Kramer (Kenosha, Wis./Indian Trails) led the Inferno in goal for all 90 minutes recording 7 saves.

Alverno will next be in action on Monday, Sept. 1 as they host Central College in their home-opener at 11 a.m.