SIOUX CENTER, Iowa – Jessenia Velez's third goal of the season wasn't enough, as the Braves reel off a 5-1 loss to Dordt University on Saturday evening.

Ottawa found themselves in a hole early, with the Defenders scoring the game's opening goal in the third minute.  Dordt continued their early pressure on Ottawa, forcing Braves goalkeeper to spring into action with five saves first 30 minutes.

Things got interesting in the 30^th minute, starting with another Dordt goal to double their lead. The Braves did well to respond, scoring right off the next kickoff. A couple of connecting passes led to a Isabelle Conte shot that forced a difficult save from Dordt goalkeeper Jenna Wright, and Velez was right there to follow up and score her third goal in just as many games.

Dordt was able to sneak in one more goal before halftime, taking a 3-1 advantage into the break. The Braves came out firing in the second half, but unfortunately was unable to hit the back of the net in large part to eight second half saves from Dordt goalkeeper Jenna Wright. Even though Ottawa had majority of scoring chances in the second half by outshooting Dordt 12-3, the Defenders scored two more goals by hitting on the counterattack with their speedy forwards.

Up Next: The Braves host William Woods at AdventHealth Field on Wednesday, Sep. 3^rd at 4:30 p.m.