MANKATO, Minn. — #2 Minnesota State defeated the Minnesota Duluth 3-0 on Friday at The Pitch. The Mavericks (9-0-1, 7-0-0 NSIC) scored all three goals in the second half, securing the victory with a shutout performance. Impressively, this shutout extends Minnesota State's streak of not allowing a goal in all 10 matches (900 minutes) this season. The home team's defense limited the Bulldogs (3-4-3, 2-3-2 NSIC) to two shots on goal, both saved by the goalkeeper.
"It was a very workman like performance," head coach
Brian Bahl said. "They played gritty, smart, tough and composed. It took us a while to find the first one but we stayed in the right mindset with a focused, steady approach and we never got rattled.
"Definitely had some moments we need to improve on. We are still giving up too many fouls in dangerous spots and we could've found ways to move the ball better. Still It was a terrific effort and good win against a quality team."
The first half began with Minnesota State establishing an early presence, creating chances soon after kickoff. Sophomore
Savanna Stockness and junior
Maddix Archer tested the Bulldogs' goalkeeper, but their efforts were thwarted by Kaycee Chavez. Despite consistent offensive pressure, including multiple corner kick opportunities, the Mavericks could not break the deadlock.
Minnesota State maintained momentum, with senor
Maille Mathis and junior
Allie Hartig each attempting shots that narrowly missed the target. Sophomore
Meghan Sullivan's attempt in the 29th minute was saved, keeping the score level. The half concluded with Minnesota State's strong offensive efforts but no goals, leaving the score tied at 0-0.
The second half began with the Mavericks finding their stride offensively. Early opportunities set the stage for senior
Avery Korsching's goal in the 61st minute, assisted by Archer and sophomore
Marin Johnson, putting the Mavericks up 1-0.
Minnesota State continued to press, with Johnson doubling the lead in the 71st minute after a corner kick, assisted by junior
Ruthie Gyasi. The offensive momentum carried through as Mathis sealed the half with a third goal in the 80th minute, assisted by senior
Addison Clarey and Korsching. Minnesota State closed the half with a commanding 3-0 lead over the Bulldogs.
Mathis scored one goal on her three shots, with one shot on goal. Johnson contributed a goal and an assist, converting both her shot attempts into shots on goal. Korsching recorded the game-winning goal and an assist, also finishing with two shots on goal. Sophomore
Lauren McAlpine registered two saves over 90 minutes, securing a shutout in the match. McAlpine has recorded shutouts in all 10 of MSU's matches this season.
In their next game, Minnesota State will host Bemidji State on October 12, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. at The Pitch in Mankato, Minn.
