CROOKSTON, Minn. — Minnesota State secured a 2-0 victory over the University of Minnesota Crookston on Friday at UMC Soccer Field, remaining undefeated in conference play. Minnesota State dominated the game with 24 shots, 15 of which were on target, while Minnesota State sophomore goalkeeper
Lauren McAlpine collected her 13th shutout of the fall. Both Maverick goals were scored in the second half.
The match commenced with Minnesota State initiating early pressure, as
Maddix Archer's shot rattled the crossbar in the second minute of play. Despite several offside calls against the Mavericks, they maintained their offensive momentum.
Minnesota State continued to press forward with multiple shots on target, including efforts from
Kiera Laney and
Allie Hartig, both thwarted by Minnesota Crookston's goalkeeper, Jordan Metz. The half concluded with a scoreless tie, as both teams remained locked in a defensive struggle, with the Mavericks holding a slight edge in attacking opportunities.
The second half began with Minnesota State capitalizing quickly, as
Maille Mathis scored a goal in the 46th minute with assists from
Addison Clarey and
Courtney Kovacs, putting MSU ahead 1-0. The Mavericks maintained offensive pressure, producing several shots on target, though Jordan Metz managed to save multiple attempts.
Mila Rustin extended the lead for the Mavericks with a goal in the 66th minute, assisted by
Abby Hoiska, bringing the score to 2-0. Despite continuous offensive efforts, including shots and corner kicks, the Mavericks were unable to increase their advantage further.
"We as a staff were proud of how the team stayed composed into the second half and found a way together," said assistant coach
Lizzy Vetter. "Crookston is always a tough place to play and credit to their team's defensive formation that made it difficult to break through initially."
Mathis scored the game-winning goal and added another to her tally, finishing with two shots, one on target.
Amara Smith led the team in shots, posting four attempts with two on target. Rustin also found the net, scoring once on three total shots.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks (12-0-2, 10-0-1 NSIC) will travel to Moorhead, Minn., to face MSU-Moorhead on Sunday, Oct. 26. The match is set to begin at 1 p.m.
