Kari Gibb/MDN MSU graduate student Pacheco Martinez (9) fights for the ball while University of Minnesota, Duluth seniors Morgan Eckerle (10) and Baamlak Haugen (4) physically defend the attack last Friday, October 11, at Herb Parker Stadium

Minot State University (MSU) and St. Cloud State soccer battled to a competitive 1-1 draw on Sunday, October 13, at Herb Parker Stadium in what proved to be a tightly contested Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) matchup.

With the result, the Beavers improved to 4-2-4 overall and 2-2-3 in conference play, continuing to show resilience in a challenging stretch of the season.

The Beavers came out of the gates with energy and were rewarded in the 15th minute when forward Anna Miotto found the back of the net for her second goal of the season. The play leading up to the goal was initiated by Reese Pittman, whose dangerous shot on target forced a handball in the box from the Huskies, resulting in a penalty kick. Miotto stepped up confidently and slotted the ball past the St. Cloud State goalkeeper to give Minot State an early 1-0 lead.

Despite MSU’s solid start, the Huskies began to build momentum as the first half progressed. St. Cloud State leveled the score in the 41st minute when Darby Allen converted a penalty kick after a defensive foul by the Beavers in the box. This equalizer shifted the tone of the game and both teams ramped up their intensity heading into the second half.

The remainder of the match saw both teams create opportunities, but the defenses held strong. Minot State’s back line, led by the physical play of Elsa Duquesne, made key tackles and blocked several dangerous attempts by the Huskies.

Siriana Gudino continued her stellar form in goal, making three critical saves to keep the Beavers in the match. Despite a few close chances, the game ended in a 1-1 stalemate.

MSU was shown two yellow cards during the match, reflecting the intensity and physical nature of the contest.

Siriana Gudino registered three saves for the Beavers, facing eight total shots from St. Cloud State.

While MSU’s lone goal came from a penalty kick, the team recorded three shots on goal over the 90 minutes.

MSU 2, University of Minnesota, Duluth 1

MSU kicked off Parent Weekend with an exciting 2-1 victory over the University of Minnesota, Duluth on Friday, October 11, at Herb Parker Stadium. The win boosted the Beavers’ record to 4-2-3 overall and 2-2-2 in NSIC play, providing momentum as they continue their conference schedule.

After a scoreless first half, MSU broke through when Anna Miotto scored her second goal of the season in the 52nd minute, with assists from Mia Lewis and Elsa Duquesne. The Bulldogs responded quickly, equalizing the match in the 56th minute with a goal from Gwendolyn Lilly, assisted by Morgan Eckerle.

The Beavers found the winning goal in the 89th minute in dramatic fashion. Yossi Villagrana converted a penalty kick, but only after the original attempt was called back. Upon referee review, it was determined that players from both teams had left the line of scrimmage prematurely. Villagrana calmly retook the penalty, sending MSU ahead 2-1. Neither team scored in the remaining minute, securing the Beavers’ victory.