A late game comeback fell short for the Washington Demon girls’ soccer team Tuesday evening in Columbus Junction. The Demons were paired up with the Columbus Wildcats in the season opener for both squads with Columbus winning in overtime 3-2.

Columbus dominated possession of the ball in the first half, gaining a 1-0 advantage 14 minutes in on a free kick from junior Melissa Maldonado. It would be the only goal scored in the first 40 minutes as the Wildcats enjoyed a 1-0 lead at intermission.

The Wildcats added to their lead in the 45th minute as a Demon defensive breakdown led to sophomore Alexis Santo’s putting her first goal of the season in the back of the net, giving Columbus a 2-0 lead.

The second half belonged to Washington senior Kayla Schindler, who scored two second half goals for the Demons. Schinder scored the team’s first goal of the season in the 64th minute to cut the deficit to one goal. Her second goal came in the 78th minute to help Washington force overtime.

In the extra period Columbus junior Tania Martinez put the game winning shot underneath Washington goal keeper Tara Gould, propelling the Wildcats to a 3-2 overtime victory.

Wildcat girls soccer coach Gabe Benitez says this was the first time his soccer program has beaten Washington. “The girls’ were pumped (to win the game), from day one they wanted this game.” Benitez said, “Last year we didn’t get to play Washington and they wanted to win this one.”

This was the first season opening loss for the Demon girls’ soccer team since the 2012 season, when Washington fell to the Clear Creek Amana Clippers 11-1.

Washington returns to competition Monday afternoon at home against the Clear Creek Amana Clippers.