SPRING ARBOR, Mich. - A pair of goals in the first seven minutes of play was all the scoring that happened between No. 15 Grace's women's soccer team and No. 4 Spring Arbor.

Both goals came from the home team, allowing SAU to produce a 2-0 win on Saturday.

The Cougars (8-0-1, 3-0 Crossroads League) jumped on Grace early with a pair of goals. Spring Arbor pounced on a mishandled ball in the penalty box to score in the opening four minutes.

Just three minutes later, SAU's lead doubled. The Cougars scored on a corner kick to take a 2-0 lead, a lead which Grace could not erase.

Grace struggled to build its patented possession attack in the first half. SAU's direct advances prevented Grace's buildup, limiting the Lady Lancers to a handful of chances in the half.

The Lady Lancers (6-4-1, 1-1-1 CL) were more effective in possession during the early minutes of the second half, but the Cougars continued to threaten on the counterattack.

Grace's possession was better after halftime, but SAU's physical play continued to disrupt Grace's passing.

Madison Tuma had a shot blocked after one of Grace's best build-ups in the second half, and Alexis Larimore had a shot go high for Grace as well.

"Our crew gained valuable intel today. We didn't begin the game switched on, which determined the score line in just eight minutes. We needed a higher level of composure on the ball to oppose the aggression and directness of this match," said Grace head coach Michael Voss. "Our quality is improving, but we need to speed up the rate. Our young crew gained valuable experience these past few weeks as we deepen our squad. Next week will be a key training week in our progression for the year."

The Lady Lancers have one match next week — a home outing against Huntington at 7 p.m. The match will also be Senior Night to honor Grace's graduating class.