HOUSTON, Texas - The Bears faced a tough conference opponent in Houston Baptist on Friday night, the Bears fell 3-2, but showed signs of real promise. The Bears took chances, but were unable to hold together for a win.

FIRST HALF - MISSED OPPORTUNITIES AND TEXAS HEAT

Both sides failed to start strong out of the gate, but the Bears took the first real chance of the match in the 12th minute when Emma Hawkins had her shot tipped over the crossbar for a corner kick. 

The players were playing in heat that hadn't been around Conway too often and it took a bit out of the player's legs. Chances were slim pickings for both teams who had chances but sent them wide every time.

SECOND HALF - GOALS AND BEING RATHER UNFORTUNATE

Both teams started the second half stronger than they did the first, but it wasn't until the 59th minute when HBU put the first goal in the back of the net. The Bears immediately attempted to respond, but couldn't find a goal of their own. HBU scored their second in the 72nd minute, but this time the Bears were able to respond.

Zoe Van de Cloot sent a corner into the 18-yard box, which found the head of Emma Hawkins to send it flying by the goalkeeper. The Bears would continue to press high and create chances but were unable to find an equalizer. In the 83rd minute, HBU hit on a quick counter-attack and scored their third of the game. Just two minutes later, however, Emma Hawkins received a ball from Van de Cloot again and Hawkins turned off her player and went past one defender to slot the ball home to make it 3-2.

HEAR FROM THE COACH

"It was a tough night, we played hard but just didn't connect passes like we usually do. But extremely proud of the way we kept fighting after getting behind to give ourselves a chance. Now we have to move on and get ready for Sunday," said Coach Jeremy Bishop after the match.

HEAR FROM THE PLAYERS

"We need to hold our heads up and focus on the games ahead. If we come out with urgency and want to play, we can take over the game," said the goalscorer Emma Hawkins.

The Bears travel to Corpus Christi on Sunday, March 7, kickoff is set for 1 p.m.