Lexington, Va. -- After battling to a scoreless draw earlier in the season, the Lynchburg Hornets were bested by the Virginia Wesleyan Marlins on Saturday in the ODAC Women's Soccer Semifinals, 1-0.

The game was dominated by the defenses as both sides had trouble getting off quality shots and a majority that were on frame were not very threatening for either keeper.

The first half started out slow, with the first shot not coming until almost 10 minutes in after junior Rachel Cooke put an attempt on frame that was saved by the Marlin goalkeeper. The Hornets would get off two more chances in the next few minutes from senior Kelley Smith and sophomore Caitlin Mertens as well as senior Camille Bartley who also was able to test the opposing goalie but could not find the back of the net.

Senior goalkeeper Tess Frelick made a great save in the 27th minute but the marlins regained possession quickly and Marli Hayward scored the lone goal of the contest just a few seconds later.

The Hornets outshot the Marlins the remainder of the half but still could not find the back of the net as the whistle blew for the end of the first 45 minutes.

The defenses stood strong again and kept the offenses in check, not allowing open looks at goal and stopping any threatening attacks before they got to the box. Lynchburg would get off a few more quality attempts but to no avail as the clock ran to 0:00 and the Marlins advanced to the ODAC Championship game.

A freshman duo consisting of Emily Sanchez and Alyssa Rudy led the Hornets with three shots while Cooke and senior Elizabeth Oden recorded two shots each.

The Hornets post a 14-2-3 record for the season and finish the season with the top defense in the nation. The women will have to wait until Monday, November 7th at 1:30 PM ET to know their fate, when the NCAA will host the Selection Show for the NCAA Tournament. Follow the link below for the Selection Show stream.

2016 DIII Women's Soccer Selection Show