MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State defeated St. Cloud State  2-1 on Sunday at The Pitch in the NSIC Tournament Championship. This victory marked the Mavericks' 11th tournament title in program history. Minnesota State secured the win with a decisive goal in the final period, after both teams remained scoreless through the middle stages. The home team recorded 11 shots on goal compared to the Huskies' nine, demonstrating a persistent offensive effort. Minnesota State's defense held firm, allowing just one goal early in the match.

The first half commenced with Minnesota State taking an early lead, courtesy of a goal by Reese Hilsenbeck, assisted by Courtney Kovacs at 2'. Minnesota State maintained pressure with multiple offensive attempts, highlighted by shots from Avery Korsching and Maddix Archer. However, St. Cloud State responded with an equalizing goal from Grace Olson, assisted by Linsey Trapino, at 18'. Both Olson and Trapino were recognized for their outstanding performances by being named to the all-tournament team. Minnesota State continued to challenge the opposition's defense, but the half concluded with a 1-1 tie.

Minnesota State applied consistent pressure throughout the second half, beginning with a corner kick at the 47' mark. Maddix Archer and Maille Mathis both challenged the Huskies' defense early, but their attempts were thwarted by goalkeeper Jaylee Strickland. Strickland's exceptional performance also earned her a spot on the all-tournament team. Despite multiple opportunities, including shots from Addison Clarey and Mila Rustin, Minnesota State was unable to find the back of the net.

Lauren McAlpine was pivotal in maintaining a clean sheet, saving several key shots from St. Cloud State, including attempts by Linsey Trapino and Darby Allen. Minnesota State's defensive efforts, combined with continued offensive pressure, saw the half close without a change in the score, leaving the game level at 1-1 at the end of regulation.

The overtime period commenced with the Mavericks and the Huskies vying for a decisive breakthrough. Minnesota State aimed to capitalize early, with Maille Mathis and Savanna Stockness both attempting shots, though neither found the net. Meanwhile, McAlpine made a critical save on Trapino's shot, maintaining the scoreline.

Despite sustained pressure from both sides, neither team was able to convert opportunities into goals. The period concluded without a change to the scoreboard, ending in a scoreless draw for the overtime period.

The second overtime period commenced with Minnesota State immediately pressing on the attack. Mathis took an early shot at 100', which was saved by Strickland. Shortly after, McAlpine made a critical save on a shot by Olson to maintain the deadlock.

Minnesota State continued to apply pressure, with Hilsenbeck taking two shots before Korsching broke through at 105'. Korsching, who was named MVP of the game, scored the decisive goal, assisted by Mathis, sealing a 2-1 victory for the Mavericks as the period concluded.

McAlpine recorded eight saves, contributing to Minnesota State's defensive stand. Mathis provided an assist and led the team with six shots, with three on target. Hilsenbeck scored the team's only goal of regular time, finishing with four shots and two on goal. Korsching netted the game-winning goal in overtime, with two of her three shots being on target.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will embark on their NCAA Tournament journey in the first round on Friday, Nov. 21. As the home team, they will aim to advance further in the competition. The exact location and time of the match are yet to be announced.

The NCAA women's soccer selection show will be streamed on NCAA.com on Monday, Nov. 17, at 5:30 p.m. (CST).

Game Notes:

- All-tournament team members: Jaylee Strickland, Ellie Primerano, Linsey Trepino, Grace Olson from St. Cloud State, and Mallie Mathis, Maddix Archer, Courtney Kovacs, Reese Hilsenbeck, and Anna Van Wyngarden from Minnesota State.