RADFORD, VA --- Despite a pair of goals from sophomore Whitney White and freshman Makela Davidson, the Howard women's soccer team dropped its 2015 season opener to the Radford Highlanders by the score of 4-2 Friday evening at Cupp Stadium.

White tied the game at 1-1 in the ninth minute when she netted the first goal of the season for Howard (0-1). Freshman Anna Mitchell got off a shot that was saved by Katie McCormick of Radford (1-0) but White was nearby to gather the rebound and score seconds later.

The Bison would not score again until the 49th minute when sophomore transfer Kela Gray connected with Davidson on a lead pass that the freshman put past McCormick with one touch.

Freshman Mackenzie Diotte started in goal for Howard and made six saves in her Bison debut but the team ultimately could not make up the deficit caused by Radford's four first-half goals and 31-7 overall shot differential.

NEXT UP: Howard will open its home schedule this Sunday, August 23 with a matchup with the Hampton University Lady Pirates. First kick is scheduled for 1 p.m.