CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – The Graceland University women's soccer team battled to a 0-0 draw with Mount Mercy University on Wednesday night at Hadzic Field. The result brings Graceland's record to 3-1-2 overall, 0-0-1 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart), while Mount Mercy moves to 3-1-2 overall, 1-0-1 in conference play.

Both sides generated seven total shots in the contest, but neither could break through. Graceland registered three shots on goal, matched evenly by three saves from senior goalkeeper Alexis Porter, who played the full 90 minutes. Porter improved her season record to 3-1-2 and secured her second shutout of the year.

The Yellowjackets' attack was led by midfielder Caitlin Lageman, who finished with two shots on goal, while midfielder Sierra Flores added two attempts, including one on target in the second half. Forward Wissal Rafik, forward Tessa Cook, and midfielder Chloe Montera also recorded opportunities as Graceland maintained steady pressure, particularly following set pieces.

Mount Mercy was reduced to 10 players after a 12th-minute red card issued to midfielder Nadine Sanchez. Despite the advantage, the Yellowjackets could not capitalize, as Mount Mercy goalkeeper Manuela Gutierrez posted three saves to keep the Mustangs level.

The defensive effort was a highlight for Graceland, who limited Mount Mercy to three shots on goal across both halves. The back line, anchored by defenders Mackenzie Melrose, Nuria Garcia, and Veronica Baehr, cleared multiple Mustang attacks and denied progress on corner opportunities.

The second half saw Graceland increase its pressure, recording five shots and winning two corner kicks. Lageman and Flores each tested Gutierrez from distance, while Cook's 59th-minute header narrowly missed the target.

Head coach Randall Porter credited his team's effort but emphasized the need for sharper execution in the attacking third.

"We created the right kinds of opportunities and controlled much of the second half," Porter said. "Our defensive shape was excellent, and Alexis [Porter] made the key saves we needed. But in the final third, we have to be more decisive and clinical. These are valuable lessons early in the conference season, and I know our group is motivated to respond."

Graceland concluded the evening with 11 fouls and five offsides, underscoring its aggressive pursuit of forward momentum. Mount Mercy totaled 11 fouls as well and saw two players booked, including a 55th-minute yellow card shown to midfielder Ava D'Ambrosio.

The result extends Graceland's unbeaten run to three matches, including back-to-back clean sheets. The Yellowjackets will look to build on the defensive momentum as conference play intensifies.

The Yellowjackets' next match is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 13, at 5:00 pm against Benedictine College. The contest will be played at Legacy Field in Atchison, Kansas.

For more information on Graceland women's soccer and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.