GRAND RAPIDS, Mich -- It was a tough day on the pitch for the Heidelberg University women's soccer team. The Student Princes began their 2021 season with a 4-0 loss to the Knights of Calvin University. 

Calvin, who entered the season No. 3 in the nation, netted three goals in the first half of play. The lone Knight goal of the second half was an own goal conceded in the game's final seconds.  

Heidelberg trailed in shots (25-4) and corner kicks (8-1).

Meredith Bruce, one of the team captains, tallied nine saves in goal. 

From Head Coach Madalynn McLaughlin.
"Opening the season with a defeat is never easy, but Calvin is nationally ranked ... competing with teams at that level prepares us for OAC competition. The first half, we definitely struggled to find our footing but calmed down entering the second half. We will walk away from this game with our heads high and keep moving forward. Our time is coming."

Heidelberg will host Olivet on Saturday for the Student Princes' first return to Hidden Valley after it sat dormant in 2020. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.