INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - University of St. Francis played its third straight strong nonconference opponent on Saturday and dropped a 6-1 verdict at Marian University (IN).

The Knights (2-0-1) were among teams receiving votes in the NAIA national preseason poll. The hosts outshot USF, 34-19, and had 15 shots on goal compared to the Saints' 5.

USF (0-3) did manage to score its first goal of the young season when freshman midfielder Amber Zukowski (Andrew H.S./Tinley Park) scored on a 30-yard shot that just got under the crossbar. Senior midfielder Caitlin Byrnes (Plainfield South H.S./Joliet, IL) was credited with an assist on the play.

Freshman midfielder Debbie Rios (Joliet Township H.S./Joliet, IL) led USF with three shots and all were on goal. Zukowski and sophomore forward Erin Voss (Nazareth Academy/Elmhurst, IL) each added a pair of shots and freshmen forwards Delaney Goddard (Romeoville H.S./Romeoville, IL) and Morgan Rowe (Ottawa H.S./Ottawa, IL) each notched one shot, with Rowe's being on goal.

Senior goalkeeper Ashley Kekelik (T.F. South H.S./Lansing, IL) posted 9 saves for the Saints.

USF plays its second straight road game this coming Friday, Sept. 11. The Saints travel to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to play Mount Mercy College. Kickoff is slated for 4 p.m.