WASHINGTON – The American University women's soccer team lost a 2-1 overtime decision at Howard University on Friday night.

American got out to an early lead off a long shot by freshman Audrey Denkler, who scored her first collegiate goal.

However, a late second-half goal from the penalty spot brought Howard back into the game. The penalty was awarded after junior Danielle Krachie pulled the shirt of a Bison forward inside the 18-yard box.

Howard's Whitney White place the ball in the top right corner leaving Eagle keeper Courtney Bembenek unable to make the save. Bembenek, who earned her second start of the season, recorded six saves.

"I felt like tonight's performance was good, but we need to put it together in 90 minutes," said Eagles' head coach Anabel Hering. "Where we're at as far as personnel, we're in a good place; we just got a little unlucky with the PK."

Near the end of the first period of overtime, Howard scored the game-winning goal. Dytria Ruddy played the ball over to Kela Gray who scored her sixth goal of the season with a shot to the upper right corner.

With AU's overtime loss, the Eagles drop to 2-5 on the season as they prepare to head into Patriot League play.

The Eagles are back in action Tuesday at Delaware St. before beginning conference play at Colgate next Saturday. American's next home fixture will be Sept. 26 when Boston University visits for a PL matchup.