After a strong first half to open the 2013 season, it was a late goal by George Washington that proved to be the difference as American University women's soccer fell in its home opener on Reeves Field, Friday night, 1-0.

The Eagles came out strong, putting a shot on goal from rookie Ashley Bonner after a long pass up-field off the opening draw. American led early in offensive output, leading the Colonials 3-0 in shots on goal midway through the first half, but George Washington eventually settled in and began to control before the end of the first half.

The teams battled toward the end of the period, but neither team could pull ahead before the half.

GW opened the second stanza resurgent and looked to put pressure on the American defense. The back line of senior Brenna Smith and juniors Kirsten Eriksen, Michaela Cowgill and Danielle Beard, were up to the challenge however as the scoreless tie continued into the 70^th minute.

The Colonials persistence paid off though, as freshman Mackenzie Cowley was able to corral a Charlene Belanger deflection and drive it home for the game-winning score.

Despite the late deficit, the Eagles continued to fight for the equalizer, with several close chances highlighted by junior Lindsay Muri's strike that went just wide of the net with 1:12 remaining in regulation.

American returns to Reeves Field this Sunday at 1 p.m., when the Eagles face area rival UMBC.