The University of Southern Indiana women's soccer team dropped the opener of the 2004 campaign, 2-1, to Ferris State University in the Grand Valley State University Invitational in Allendale, Michigan. USI will conclude tournament action Sunday at 1 p.m. (CT) against the host GVSU, which is ranked 10th nationally in the NCAA Division II preseason poll.

The Lady Bulldogs took a 2-0 lead in the first half despite being out shot by the Screaming Eagles, 11-8. The Eagles pulled to within a goal in the 74th minute on a goal by freshman midfielder Julie Collins (Merrillville, Indiana). Collins scored her first collegiate goal off an assist by junior midfielder Brooklyn Gant (Evansville, Indiana).

USI had its chance in the final 15 minutes of the match, hitting the crossbar or the post five times.

The Eagles will open the 2004 home schedule Sunday, September 5, when they host Wheeling Jesuit University for a 2 p.m. match.