MANKATO, Minn – Minnesota State (13-1-5, 11-0-3 NSIC) hosts UMary (11-4-3, 8-3-3 NSIC) in the semifinals of the NSIC Tournament on Friday at 1 p.m. at The Pitch. The Mavericks also host the first semifinal soccer game between Concordia-St. Paul and Minot State at 10 a.m.

In their recent 2-0 win in the conference quarterfinals over Wayne State, the Mavericks were led by Junior Anna Van Wyngarden, who netted her second goal of the season with an assist from Kelsey Heller. Amara Smith followed up in the 28th minute, securing her third goal of the year with help from Kiera Laney. Clare Longueville held the line in goal, facing eight shots and maintaining her impressive 0.21 goals-against average and .938 save percentage for the season.

Facing UMary:
The Mavericks and Marauders previously met in September, with Minnesota State securing a 2-0 victory. The team will look to replicate that success on their home turf as they fight for a spot in the NSIC Championship.

Scouting the Marauders:
The Marauders arrive in Mankato following a hard-fought 2-1 win over St. Cloud State in the NSIC Tournament's opening round. Leading their offense is Rio Spruenken, who has posted five goals and five assists this season. In goal, Molly Fischer has recorded a .57 goals-against average and .836 save percentage.

Whats Ahead:
The winner of the match between Concordia- St. Paul and Minot State will face the winner of the match between Minnesota State and UMary. The championship game will be played out at The Pitch on Sunday at 1 p.m. The Mavericks are the No. 1 seed in the tournament and are ranked No. 7 in Division II by United Soccer Coaches. The team has not allowed an opponent goal in eight straight games going back more than a month to October 11.