DOWAGIAC — After a season-opening tie with Niles, the Dowagiac soccer team struggled to score goals.

At the Chieftain Invitational on Saturday, Dowagiac went 1-1, defeating Cassopolis 2-1 and losing in the championship match to Coloma 1-0.

On Monday, the Chieftains and visiting Bridgman played to a 0-0 tie.

“I thought the girls played well this weekend,” said Dowagiac coach Chad Davis. “We started out a little slow, but the overall effort was there. Cassopolis did amazing job considering it had no subs. They played us tough, and I expected that. They’re a tough group of girls.”

Dowagiac outshot Cassopolis 21-8 and got its goals from Matha Schaller and Allie Conner.

The Chieftain did not mount much of an offense against the Comets, who defeated Cassopolis 8-0 in the second match of the round robin.

Dowagiac was limited to just four shots on goal.

“Coloma on the other hand jumped out on us quickly and move the ball fairly well on us,” Davis said. “So, with a little extra motivation, I finally got them to settle down and start playing. I was proud of my girls. They played hard. We’re starting to form into a team and understand the game as a unit. “We are excited to see what the rest of the season will bring.”

Against the Bees, Dowagiac did get off 14 shots, but could not find the back of the net.

Keeper Jenna Davis was credited with 19 saves in picking up the shutout.

“I’m going to sound like a broken record, but we came out extremely slow in the first half and were about two seconds behind the ball on every decision,” Davis said. “The second half was much better the girls settle down and started moving the ball, which opened up their defense so we could get some shots on goal. But overall, I’m pleased with the girls play on the night.”

The Chieftains host Vicksburg at 5 p.m. today in its Wolverine Conference South Division opener.