MNU Women's soccer hosted Culver-Stockton University on Thursday and came away with a 4-1 victory. The Pioneers overcame a slow start as Culver came out strong and applied immediate pressure and at the 30 minute mark struck first. MNU responded with some good opportunities but were unlucky on several chances. With 32 seconds left in the first half, MNU scored their first goal of the game.
Coach Orton stated, “It was what we do best, play possessional soccer. The ball was played between 6 different players and the combination play was wonderful. Heather Mahon switched the ball to Alanna Russo and Brittany Matthews chipped the goalkeeper to tie the game at 1-1. It was just what we needed in the game.”
MNU came out strong in the 2nd half and Gabby Rodriquez struck from 30 yards out to put the Pioneers up for good at 2-1. MNU continued to attack hard. Orton stated, “Our goal in the game was to come out and apply lots of pressure and possess the ball. We did that today really well. The girls really stepped up today and it showed on the score board. Four different goal scorer is good on any day.” Taylor Howell scored her first goal of the season with an amazing volley from the top of the box. Jaime Hertling set up Taylor and made the score 3-1 in favor of MNU. With 3 minutes left in the game Kinsey Chavez headed the ball over the outstretched arms of the Culver goal keeper for the 4th and final goal of the game.
MNU moves to 6-5 overall and 1-2 in the HAAC with the win. MNU's next game is against Missouri Valley College at MNU. Kickoff is set for 3:15pm.
