RIO GRANDE, Ohio – The Bluefield University women's soccer team fell 4-0 to the University of Rio Grande in its season opener Thursday evening.

The opening half was evenly contested through the first 30 minutes, but the Red Storm (1-0-0) broke through in the 31st minute to take the lead. Bluefield's (0-1-0) best chance of the half came five minutes earlier when junior midfielder Sara Dunphy logged a shot attempt but did not connect.

The Red Storm added two more goals before halftime to carry a 3-0 advantage into the break.

Bluefield settled in defensively after halftime, keeping Rio Grande off the board until a late strike in the 82nd minute sealed the final margin.

Sophomore goalkeeper Autumn Matthews recorded nine saves in the match, while Dunphy tallied BU's lone shot.

The Rams return to action August 26 with a road contest at Alice Lloyd College. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.