FORT WORTH - Texas Wesleyan University (2-4-2, 0-1-0 SAC) battled but was unable to find the back of the net in a 1-0 loss to Wayland Baptist University (4-3-0, 1-0-0 SAC)on Saturday at Martin Field.

The Pioneers struck in the 22nd minute when Gabriella Chapa scored her first goal of the season, finishing a pass from Camila Zavala. That goal proved to be the difference as the Rams were held scoreless despite generating multiple chances in the second half.

"We showed fight and composure after giving up that early goal," Texas Wesleyan head coach Katie Bond said. "Our players created opportunities and pushed the pace late in the match, but we need to continue working on finishing in the final third. I'm proud of how we responded."

After Chapa's opener, Texas Wesleyan nearly equalized late in the first half when Natalie Ipina's shot in the 35th minute went wide. In the second period, the Rams pressed forward with a string of chances. Haley Ellis put two shots on frame, while Jessica Jones, Bailey Clark, Kayannah Moore and Brinkley Williams each forced a save from Wayland goalkeeper Ashley Lopez, who finished with seven stops to preserve the clean sheet.

Texas Wesleyan goalkeeper Hannah Smith entered at the start of the second half and tallied two saves, including a stop on a shot by Elaina Barrientes in the 83rd minute that kept the Rams within striking distance.

Despite outshooting Wayland in the second half and earning several corner kicks, Texas Wesleyan couldn't convert in the closing minutes. Lopez turned away Moore in the 88th minute and then stopped Williams less than a minute later to seal the result.

Wayland Baptist also threatened throughout the match, hitting the post once and sending several attempts high or wide. Texas Wesleyan's defensive unit held firm after the early goal, limiting the Pioneers' chances down the stretch.

The Rams will look to bounce back in their next conference match Tuesday against USAO on the road.