As the afternoon heat beat down on NKU’s Soccer Stadium, it became apparent that NKU women’s soccer and Western Kentucky University were in for a long game no matter the outcome.

The game ended with a score of 1-1 with NKU feeling good about how they had performed

“I think we are in a fairly good place for 12 days in,” Head Coach Bob Sheehan said. “We have a lot of work to do and we have to continue to do all the little things right if we are going to continue to be successful.”

Of at a quick pace, it wouldn’t take long for the teams to noticeably slow down as steps became heavy and speeds slowed down.

The first half of the game dragged on as the sun slowly began to fall behind clouds and the stadium leaving the second half of the game cooler and more intense as both teams struggled to find the back of the net.

The Hilltoppers found hope in an own goal by NKU giving WKU the lead in the 59th minute of play.

Sami Rutowski, a junior midfielder would bring back hope for NKU though scoring in the 85th minute of an assist from Payton Naylor.

“I was pleased with the drive and commitment we demonstrated late in the game to come back and get the game-tying goal and to have a couple opportunities to even win a game,” Sheehan said.

Sheehan said that to prepare for the upcoming regular season, it will be about focusing on the fundamentals for the team.

NKU’s regular season kicks off Friday at home against IPFW at 7 p.m.