The Basics
Score: MNU 3 – Science & Arts 0
Record: MNU (14–3–3), Science & Arts (13–4–5)
Location: Chickasha, Okla. – McLaughlin Field
CHICKASHA, Okla. – #21 MNU delivered a dominant postseason performance on Saturday afternoon, defeating #17 Science & Arts 3–0 behind a blistering first-half surge. The victory advances MNU to the Final Site for the second straight season.
The Pioneers set the tone early. In the 11th minute, Thayline Teixeira opened the scoring, finishing her 13th goal of the season after a setup from Bella Leon to put MNU ahead 1–0. Just three minutes later, Leon doubled the advantage, slotting home a chance created by Luna Etienne to make it 2–0. Leon struck again in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a loose ball for her second goal of the match and giving MNU a commanding 3–0 lead.
From that point on, MNU's defense held firm. Goalkeeper Fiona Popetschnig produced an outstanding performance, recording 8 saves—including 6 in the first half—as USAO applied pressure through 22 total shots and eight corners.
Turning Point
Teixeira's goal in the 11th minute proved to be enough.
Individual Leaders
Bella Leon: 2 goals, 1 assist
Thayline Teixeira: 1 goal
Luna Etienne: 1 assist
Fiona Popetschnig: 8 saves, clean sheet
Up Next
The Pioneers will play #5 Oklahoma Wesleyan in Pensacola, Florida on Monday, December 1 at 1:00 central.
