BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Tennessee soccer began its season with a loss on Thursday, falling 1-0 to Indiana.

After a cagey first half, Indiana (1-0-0) broke through in the 50th minute with the opening goal of the game. The Lady Vols (0-1-0) could never catch up as the Hoosiers dominated the second half.

Despite pushing players forward, Tennessee’s attack didn’t generate much. The Lady Vols registered seven shots, putting four on goal.

Here are some takeaways from the loss.

Lady Vols start season slow offensively

Tennessee got plenty of the ball in the first half but could not generate much offense. The Lady Vols finished the first 45 minutes with four shots, two of which hit the target.

Sammi Woods started her Lady Vols career with a yellow card early in the half, but she participated heavily in Tennessee’s buildup from the midfield. Kate Runyon recorded two shots in the opening half and was a key member of the attack.

In goal, Ally Zazzara saved the only shot on target she faced from the Hoosier attack. 

Newcomers make debut

Tennessee welcomed 16 new players to its roster this season, only returning 13 players from last year’s NCAA Tournament team. 

Four new players started for the Lady Vols in the season opener. Woods joined fellow Michigan transfer Sarah Bridenstine in the starting lineup. Former Penn State midfielder Luciana Latino also got the nod, while Reese Mattern made her college debut in Thursday’s game. Mattern put one shot on goal for the Lady Vols.

Tennessee defense falters in second half

Shortly after halftime, Indiana became more aggressive offensively. The Hoosiers put the ball into the box and Tennessee couldn’t clear, allowing Kennedy Neighbors to get a shot away. Zazzara couldn’t make the save, and Indiana took the lead.

Shortly thereafter, Indiana created another strong chance, forcing Zazzara to make her second save of the game. The Hoosiers continued to go forward throughout the second period, but the Lady Vols were able to deal with the pressure.

Jaida Thomas returns

After a season-ending injury last season, Jaida Thomas opened her season off the bench on Thursday. She made an immediate impact, winning a corner kick in her first few seconds of action.

The redshirt senior played 41 minutes for Tennessee and played in both halves. Thomas didn’t record a shot but still contributed to Tennessee’s play.