The Basics
Score: MNU 1 – Graceland 2
Record: MNU (9-3-2, 6-3-1), Graceland (8-3-1, 6-2-1)
Location: Lamoni, Iowa - Rasmussen Field

LAMONI, Iowa – MNU took an early lead at Graceland on Wednesday evening, but the Yellowjackets answered with two goals to hand the Pioneers a 2-1 defeat in Heart of America Athletic Conference action.

The Pioneers struck first in the ninth minute when Megan Watson found the back of the net off an assist from Maria Stumpf. Watson's goal gave MNU a 1-0 advantage just 8:14 into the contest.

Graceland responded quickly, scoring the equalizer at 10:20 to tie the game at one. MNU continued to apply pressure throughout the opening half, but neither team found another goal before halftime.

The Pioneers created several opportunities to regain the lead, including first-half chances from Maddie Lalman, Sara Arsee, Quinncy Schiessler, and Stumpf. However, the score remained 1-1 entering the break.

Graceland came out aggressively in the second half, forcing MNU goalkeeper Fiona Popetschnig into three saves in the opening eight minutes. The Pioneers weathered the early pressure and looked to respond, with Tindra Jarl testing the Graceland goalkeeper in the 54th minute.

The decisive moment came in the 73rd minute when Graceland scored at 72:16 to take its first lead of the evening, 2-1.

MNU pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Valerie Veloz and Emily Rawlins forced saves, and Stumpf came inches from tying the game when her attempt struck the crossbar in the 83rd minute.

Jarl created another opportunity in the 85th minute, but Graceland preserved its advantage to secure the 2-1 victory.

Turning Point
Graceland scored in the 73rd minute to take the lead.

Individual Leaders
Megan Watson: 1 goal
Maria Stumpf: 1 assist
Fiona Popetschnig: 7 saves

Up Next
The next match is Tuesday at home vs. William Woods at 1:00.