MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State secured a decisive 4-2 victory over Wayne State on Sunday at The Pitch. The Mavericks struck twice in each half, with a total of 28 shots and 11 on target. The home team's defense held strong, with the goalkeeper making six saves against 10 shots from Wayne State. Despite a late effort from the visitors that saw them score twice in the second half, the Mavericks maintained their lead to clinch the win.

The match began with Minnesota State establishing control early in the first half. Despite multiple attempts, the home team found the net in the 27th minute when Amara Smith scored with an assist from Meghan Sullivan, gaining a 1-0 lead. The Mavericks maintained offensive pressure, with several shots on goal, though Wayne State managed to challenge the home defense sporadically. 

Minnesota State extended their advantage just before halftime, with Megan Grater scoring in the 40th minute, assisted by Abby Hoiska and Allie Hartig. The half concluded with the Mavericks ahead 2-0, capitalizing on their offensive efforts while goalkeeper Lauren McAlpine provided key saves to preserve the lead.

The second half began with Minnesota State extending their lead when Addison Clarey scored in the 46th minute, assisted by Maille Mathis and Maddix Archer, making it 3-0. The Mavericks continued to apply pressure with multiple shots on goal, leading to a penalty kick goal by Kennedy Macke in the 67th minute, increasing the lead to 4-0.

"We played well overall today. Moved the ball and created quality chances. Defended well as a team and limited Wayne's opportunities.  A few things to clean up still this week but we're progressing nicely.  Looking forward to what's ahead." Said head coach Brian Bahl.  

Wayne State managed to find the net with Nevaeh James scoring in the 80th minute, assisted by Paige Pemberton, bringing the score to 4-1. They added another goal via a penalty kick by Morgan Mancuso in the 84th minute, narrowing the gap to 4-2. The half concluded with the Mavericks maintaining a two-goal advantage as the final whistle blew.

McAlpine made six saves, with five coming in the first half, contributing significantly to the Mavericks' defensive efforts. Smith scored one goal from three shots, all while ensuring her single shot on goal was successful. Macke found the back of the net with her only shot, converting a penalty kick to add to her goal tally. Clarey netted the game-winning goal and managed to score on one of her two shots.

In their next game, Minnesota State will host St. Cloud State University on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 1 p.m. CT at The Pitch in Mankato, Minnesota.