BROWNWOOD, Texas - The Howard Payne University women's soccer team fell in the final minutes 3-1 to Belhaven University Thursday afternoon at Citizens National Bank Field.

With Belhaven leading 1-0 at the break, Howard Payne's,Kristy Melendez netted her first goal as a Lady Jacket on a Tyla Tipton assist in the 82nd minute of the match.

The Lady Jackets felt like they were headed to overtime but a HPU foul in the box gave Belhaven a penalty kick with just under five minutes to play in regulation. The penalty kick was good by Amber Harber to give Belhaven the lead and then an additional goal with under a minute remaining secured the 3-1 win for Belhaven.

Belhaven lead in shots 12-11 but Howard Payne lead in shots on goal 8-7. The Lady Jackets were called offsides seven times to just one for Belhaven.

Kelsie Piland got the start in goal for HPU recording two saves and allowing one goal in the first period. Nicole Goodwin played in goal the second period allowing two goals with two saves.

Dayane Gutierrez lead HPU with four total shots, three on goal followed by Rachel Crane with two shots.

Howard Payne is now 3-9-2 overall and Belhaven stands at 6-9-1. The Lady Jackets are still in the hunt for an American Southwest Conference tournament playoff spot. With a win over Louisiana College this Saturday will secure a place for Howard Payne in the tournament. The LC match will begin at 1:00 pm, the HPU seniors will be recognized before the match.