The Northwestern women’s soccer team ended their season in heartbreaking fashion following a 2-1 loss to the Morningside Mustangs in a GPAC semifinal contest in Sioux City on Nov. 10.
Jahdai Dunk capitalized on a pass from Jennifer Inge to put the Red Raiders up 1-0 in the 8th minute. NW owned a 5-4 shot advantage in a back-and-forth first half, which was highlighted by Dunk’s goal. The Red Raider defense held firm through most of the second half, but the offense was unable to find a second, decisive goal to relieve pressure.
The Mustangs finally found the back of the net before grabbing the winning goal less than two minutes later. In the final 15 minutes, NW had a few chances in Morningside’s penalty area, but were unable to equalize in the end. Morningside led the total shot count 10-7, and led in shots-on-goal 7-6.
NW finishes their season at 10-7-3, tying the school record for victories in a season. The Red Raiders also claimed a program-best third place finish in conference play.
The seniors completing their careers for NW are Lucy Cardamone, Abby Gardiner, Michaela Gibson, Nikki Green, Kim Korver, Mattie Ostrowski, Kelcie Scarlett, Taylor Smith and Alea Stammer.
Win vs. Dordt
In a tense GPAC quarterfinal matchup, NW knocked off rival Dordt College 1-0 to pick up their first conference tournament victory since 2005.
The deadlock was broken in the 52nd minute when freshman Madeline Swift chipped the Dordt keeper from outside the box. Dordt outshot the NW 18-9, but the Red Raiders held the Defenders scoreless, thanks to seven saves by sophomore goalkeeper Naomi Schimmel.
