MILWUAKEE -- The Western Michigan women's soccer team opened the 2011 season with a hard-fought 1-0 loss to No. 12 Marquette on Friday evening in front of 380 fans at Valley Field.

The Broncos were outshot 19-3 and landed only one shot on goal against the Golden Eagles. Marquette's Maegan Kelly broke through the Brown & Gold back line in the 24th minute to net the long goal of the game.

"I think the build up to the game, playing away for the first time of the season and against such a formidable opponent like Marquette our nerves took over a little bit," said head coach Suzie Grech. "I thought we defended very well and only a turnover led to their goal. I think if we clean up those defensive errors then I think we are right there with them."

Stephanie Skowneski, Nikolette Rivera and Brittney Pavlica were the lone Broncos to fire off a shot each, with Rivera landing hers on net. Freshman Maddie Reed made five saves for WMU in her collegiate debut.

WMU was able to pressure Marquette in the second half, where they got off all three of their shots.

"In the second half I thought we were much more of an opponent and created more opportunities, going forward and transitioning," added Grech. "The biggest problem we had today was transitioning from defending to attacking."

Grech pointed out the stellar play of junior center back Kelsey Baskins and senior captain Caitlin Henderson, who was moved to center back during the first half.

WMU continues on the road next weekend when they head to Northern Illinois for the NIU Tournament to battle North Dakota on Friday at 2:30 p.m. and South Dakota State on Sunday at noon.