BOX SCORE | SEASON STATS

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (SMU) – SMU fought hard to keep up offensively with No. 8 Memphis throughout the match, but ultimately fell 4-2 to the Tigers in the semifinals of the American Athletic Conference tournament on Thursday evening in Memphis.

The Mustangs (12-7-1, 5-6-0) held their own, matching the Tigers (17-1-1, 9-0-1) in multiple categories. Both teams tied with 17 shots and Memphis held a slim lead in shots on goal, 11-9.

SMU had some close chances throughout the first half, but fell behind when Memphis scored less than two minutes into the match. A penalty kick added a second goal for Memphis in the 39^th minute and gave them a 2-0 lead heading into the break.

Coming out of the half, Allie Thornton netted her 13^th goal of the season with an assist from Hailey Bishop, putting a shot past the Memphis goalkeeper into the bottom right-hand corner in the 47^th minute. The goal cut the Memphis lead to 2-1.

The Tigers quickly responded, regaining a two-goal lead in the 52^nd minute of the match.

SMU wasn't ready to quit and scored again in the 67^th minute when a pass from Thornton found Jewel Boland. Boland's sliding shot found the top of the net to bring the Mustangs within one with Memphis holding a 3-2 lead.

The Mustangs gave it their all throughout the last 20 minutes, with six shots and three on goal to pressure the Memphis defense. The Tigers added a fourth goal in the 90^th minute, though, to secure the win and spot in the AAC championship game.

Tatum Sutherland was a standout in goal for the Mustangs with seven saves during the match. She helped SMU's defense keep the Memphis offense at bay with multiple big saves and blocks.

SMU now awaits its fate when the NCAA Selection Show airs on Monday, Nov. 11.