Fayette, Mo. - Behind three second-half goals, the Central Methodist women's soccer team defeated No. 8 seeded Clarke University in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament by a score of 3-0 Saturday night at Davis Field. 

With the win, Central advances to the tournament semifinals for the fifth straight season including six of the last seven years. Clarke concludes its season with a final record of 10-8-1. 

It was a scoreless first half for both sides, as Central outshot the Pride 7-4 in the first 45 minutes of action. The Eagles' offense increased the pressure in the second half, tallying 13 total shots. 

Heart Freshman of the Year Marcella Helena scored her 10th goal of the season in the 56th minute off the assist from Maria Cervello. 

Less than 15 minutes later, Alicia Zamora pushed Central's lead to 2-0 with a score, and the assist coming from Andrea Villar. Helena sealed the 3-0 shut out not long after, tallying her second goal of the match and 11th on the season unassisted. 

Overall, Central outshot the Pride, 20-9 including 10 shots on goal along with seven corner kicks. The Eagles' defense recorded their 15th shut out of the season, tying for the second most in a single season in program history (2017). 

Helena led the offense with eight total shots, including six on goal and a brace. Villar recorded four shots, while Cervello and Zamora each tallied three. 

The Eagles will next host No. 5 seeded Baker University in the semifinals on Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Davis Field. Central won the earlier matchup between the two sides by a score of 2-0 back on Oct. 9. 

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