MOORHEAD, Minn. — #2 Minnesota State (13-0-2, 11-0-1 NSIC) secured a 2-0 victory over MSU Moorhead (3-11-1, 2-10-0 NSIC) on Sunday at Nemzek Soccer Field. The Mavericks dominated with 29 shots, 16 of which were on target, while keeping a clean sheet thanks to five saves from their goalkeeper. With the win the Mavericks have improved to 8-0 on the road this season.

This victory was particularly significant as it secured the Mavericks a home match for the first round of the NSIC Tournament on Monday, Nov. 10. The Mavericks found the back of the net once in each half, clinching the win with a decisive second goal. The Dragons' defense was tested throughout the match, recording 14 saves but failing to score.

"There were tough conditions for a soccer match," head coach Brian Bahl said. "Wind and field conditions made it challenging to play the way we like to play, but overall we handled it pretty well and found a way to get another road win."

The first half began with Minnesota State establishing early offensive pressure. Senior Addison Clarey found the net in the ninth minute, giving the Mavericks an early lead. Despite multiple attempts from MSU Moorhead, sophomore Lauren McAlpine provided a solid last line of defense with key saves to maintain the advantage. McAlpine's performance in this game earned her the 14th shutout of the season, underscoring her pivotal role in the team's defensive success.

Minnesota State continued to apply pressure with several shots on goal, though Quinn Carter of MSU Moorhead made crucial saves to keep the home team within reach. The half closed with the Mavericks leading 1-0, sustaining their slim advantage into the next half.

The second half began with the Mavericks maintaining the pressure, as senior Maille Mathis tested the MSU Moorhead goalkeeper early with a shot on target. Despite a series of attempts, including efforts from Clarey and senior Kiera Laney, the home goalkeeper, Rylee Truslow, made several key saves to keep the score tight.

Minnesota State eventually broke through in the 71st minute when sophomore Amara Smith found the back of the net, extending their lead. The team continued to create opportunities, with junior Allie Hartig and freshman Megan Grater both taking shots that were saved. The half concluded with the Mavericks holding a 2-0 advantage, securing the victory.

McAlpine recorded five saves and secured a shutout in her 90 minutes of play. Smith scored once, converting one of her two shots into a goal. Clarey tallied a goal and led the team with seven shots, three of which were on target, including the game-winning goal. Mathis posted four total shots, with three on goal.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host Augustana on Friday, Oct. 31, at The Pitch in Mankato, Minn. The match is set for 3 p.m. as the Mavericks aim to capitalize on their home-field advantage.

"We have a big week ahead of us," Bahl said. " We have some things we need to clean up but we are excited about where we're at and what's ahead."