Las Vegas, NM- The Cowgirls played their final out of conference game in the 2026 season.
 
The Cowgirls outshot the Rangers of Northwestern Oklahoma State however a couple timely penalties that lead to penalties kicks were going the be the difference.
 
In the 43 minutes of the first half a penalty kick was given to the Rangers, and the shot went just a few inches outside the outstretch arms of the Cowgirls keeper Peyton Greener to give the Rangers a 1-0 lead headed into the half.
 
Coming out of the half the Rangers wasted no time applying pressure to the Cowgirls defense and another penalty led to a second penalty kick and it would lead to a second goal to extend the lead.
 
The Cowgirls had multiple opportunities to get on board but were unable to get a shot to fall. Tyesha Nelson was all over the field in today's match defensively and offensively and showed her ball handling skills as she had an opportunity to score but good defense from the rangers prevailed and the Cowgirls would fall.
 
UP NEXT: The Cowgirls play their first conference games next week with a trip to Black Hills State followed by a match with the Rangers of Regis in Denver.
 
 
 
Game Notes:
Fourth meeting between the two, with the Rangers leading the series with 2 wins and one draw.
This is the second time the Rangers have found themselves in Las Vegas, with the other two games being at the Rangers home field. 
Highlands - 12 shots, 3 shots on goals, 4 saves
Final stats for  - 2 goals, 12 shots, 4 shots on goal, 3 saves