SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Minnesota State women's soccer team continued its strong start to conference play with a 3-0 win over Sioux Falls on Sunday afternoon. The Mavericks controlled possession throughout the match and earned their eighth shutout of the season.

The Mavericks came out strong in the opening half, creating several early scoring opportunities. Courtney Kovacs and Reese Hilsenbeck both tested Cougar goalkeeper Delani Daubman, who made key saves to keep the game scoreless through the first 30 minutes. Minnesota State's persistence paid off in the 37th minute when Marin Johnson buried a pass from Alicia Hoffman to give MSU a 1-0 lead. The goal marked Johnson's fourth of the season.

"Really solid team performance today.  Willingness and effort to be the aggressor was improved.' said head coach Brian Bahl. "Our press was improved and our attacking mindset took a step forward. Scored multiple ways and that's always extremely encouraging. Overall a solid weekend on the road and we found ways to grow together as a team."

Minnesota State continued to push the tempo in the second half, keeping Sioux Falls pinned in their own half for long stretches. The Mavericks extended their lead in the 55th minute when Maddix Archer scored her third goal of the year, finishing off a perfectly placed cross from Addison Clarey.

The Mavericks sealed the win late in the match when Avery Korsching found the back of the net in the 84th minute, securing the 3-0 result. The goal was Korsching's second of the season.

Defensively, MSU was rock solid once again. Goalkeeper Lauren McAlpine recorded her nineth shutout of the year, stopping all shots on target. The Mavericks' back line—anchored by Anna Van Wyngarden and Maclayne Menzel—limited the Cougars to just a handful of scoring chances.

With the win, Minnesota State improves to (8-0-1, 6-0 NSIC). The Mavericks will return home next weekend to host Minnesota Duluth and Bemidji State at The Pitch in Mankato.