ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Houghton women's soccer put up a valiant effort but came up just short in a 1-0 loss to St. John Fisher in the first round of the Empire 8 Tournament on Saturday.

The first half was dominated by the No. 2 seed Cardinals, who outshot Houghton 19-2. The No. 7 seed Highlanders were able to withstand the pressure, however, and composed themselves with stronger play over the final 45 minutes. But it was the Cardinals who would break through first, scoring the decisive goal in the 67th minute. Despite giving up the lone goal in the second half, Houghton limited the Fisher scoring chances. Shot were 7-5 in favor of the Cardinals in the second half.

Preslee Miller was a stalwart in goal, finishing with 15 saves, including 11 in the first half.

Taylor Curyto and Aivery Shuck led the Highlanders with two shots apiece.

Houghton finishes its season with a record of 11-5-3. The 11 wins were the most since the team won the same amount in 2016. The five losses were the fewest since 2013 (not counting the shortened 2021 spring season). The Highlanders also produced its largest conference win total with five since joining the E8 in 2014.