Columbia, Mo. - The Cougar women's soccer team defeated Lindenwood University-Belleville by a score of 6-0 tonight in the first round of the American Midwest Conference (AMC) Postseason Tournament. Columbia, the league's regular season champion and No. 1 seed in the tournament, improves to 11-5-1 on the season.

After 35 minutes of scoreless play, Tori Magaletta broke free to give the Cougars a 1-0 lead. Columbia maintained the 1-0 advantage heading into the second half.

Kelli Westhues wasted little time adding the second goal after finding the back of the net less than one minute into the second period. Magaletta would add her second goal of the night in the 64th minute off a free kick. A little over a minute later, Jordan Poire netted the third goal for Columbia after connecting with Magaletta. Mercedes Kercado would add a goal of her own in the 74^th minute. Tiffany Weaver took the assist for Kercado's goal. Katelyn Palmer wrapped up the scoring with a little over a minute left in the match to give the Cougars their ninth shutout of the season.

Columbia outshot Lindenwood-Belleville 25-2 for the game, with the Cougars converting 6 of 11 shots on goal. Flavia Rosado earned the shutout win in goal

Prior to game time, members of the 2014 AMC All-Academic team were announced. The Cougars placed eight players on the squad, which included Kelli Westhues, Flavia Rosado, Tori Magaletta, Carlie Howe, Mallory Page, Taylor Hagenhoff, Taylor Goddard, and Teresa Fleming.

Columbia will advance to the AMC Tournament Semifinals on Monday, November 10^th to take on No. 4 seed William Woods University after the Owls defeated Benedictine-Springfield 2-0. Game time is set for 6:00 p.m. at R. Marvin Owens Soccer Stadium. Visit www.amcsportsonline.com for the complete tournament bracket and schedule.