FAYETTE - The Owls put up a battle against the defending national champion and top-ranked Eagles before falling in a narrow loss in Wednesday night's season opener.
Central Methodist University produced the game's only goal in the 56th minute when Jayton Johnson scored off a corner kick from Marcos German.
William Woods University was outshot by the Eagles 19-7, including 10-4 in shots on goal. Central Methodist also owned a 9-5 edge in corner kicks.
Sophomore goalkeeper Iker Gonzalez posted nine saves for the Owls.
William Woods remains on the road for a contest at Graceland (Iowa) University at 3 p.m. Saturday.