SAINT MARY OF THE WOODS, Ind. - The IU Kokomo women's soccer team picked up a 1-0 win at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Thursday afternoon, improving to 5-0-1 in RSC action. The victory is the Cougars fifth-straight and seventh of the year.

Thursday's matchup proved to be evenly matched throughout, especially for a majority of the opening half, as the two sides traded possessions.

It was late in the first half when the Cougars seemed to grab ahold of momentum after a flurry of shots and chances. Kelsi Hoot sent one off the crossbar after receiving a pass from Elaina Page in the 38th minute, before regathering and sending a shot just wide of the goal seconds later. Kaiya Bogers would have a scoring chance denied in the 39th minute on a nice save by the SMWC goalkeeper.

The IUK momentum would soon pay off, as the Pomeroys committed a foul in the box, gifting the Cougars a penalty kick in the final minute of the first half. The trusted Keely Hoopingarner stepped up to take the PK, converting calmly to give IUK a 1-0 halftime lead, her league-leading 11th goal of the season.

IU Kokomo managed a few more dangerous scoring chances in the second half, but were unable to convert. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods saw their fair-share of opportunities, but the Cougar backline was stout in front of goalie Sydney Miller when called upon. The Cougars would close out a 1-0 road win after a scoreless second half.

The Pomeroys out-shot IU Kokomo 15-14 and 8-6 in shots on goal. Sydney Miller picked up her third shut-out win of the season, saving all eight shots faced. 

The Cougars will return home for a pair of matches, beginning with a 3:00 PM kickoff Saturday against Midway at Kokomo Municipal Stadium.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the IU Kokomo Cougars, fans can visit IUKCougars.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Cougar news by following @IUKAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.