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PEMBROKE, N.C. - A late first-half goal was all it took to hand Georgia College & State University soccer (3-1-1, 0-1 PBC) its first loss of the 2008 season today (Sept. 20), as the Bobcats dropped a 1-0 decision at No. 8 UNC Pembroke (7-0, 1-0 PBC).

The loss opens up the Peach Belt Conference (PBC) season for Georgia College, the first time the Bobcats have opened up PBC play with a loss.

The Bobcats were downed by a lack of chances, falling behind for the first time this season in the shots battle, 12-5.

UNCP reserve Nisa Atkins broke the scoreless tie with her third strike of the season, taking a cross pass from Sheena Mature for a one-on-one opportunity with Georgia College goalkeeper Mary Rob Plunkett (Augusta, Ga.). Atkins' goal came with less than five minutes left in the half.

Georgia College managed three second-half shots, including shots-on-goal by both junior Lyric Burnett (Douglasville, Ga.) and freshman Jessica Newland (Hiram, Ga.).

Plunkett took the loss, making a pair of saves, while UNCP goalkeeper Whitney Beverly, the defending PBC Goalkeeper of the Week, made three stops for the shutout win.

The Bobcats return to action Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m., hosting Erskine College (1-5). The Flying Fleet played at Barton College today.

The GCSU Department of Athletics sponsors 10 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. As a Division II program, GCSU prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the Bobcats' multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Follow the Bobcats and their positive impact on the Milledgeville community at www.gcsu.edu/bobcats.