BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Northern Michigan University women's soccer team (2-2) concluded its 2021 non-conference slate with an overtime battle at Bemidji State University where the 'Cats fell by a score of 3-2.

DOWN EARLY

The Beavers scored the first goal of the match in the 19th minute and held that score through the duration of the half. 

Despite being down on the scoreboard, NMU led in shots in the first half by a margin of 9-4 with a 3-1 lead in shots on goal.

Brooke Pietila, Caroline Halonen, and Justina L'Esperance all tallied shots on goal in the half.

'CATS COMEBACK

With time winding down in the second half, the Wildcats mounted a comeback.

Ashley Koch pulled NMU even 1-1 with Bemidji State in the 72nd minute with an unassisted goal, her second score as a Wildcat.

Exactly two minutes later Isabella Cardoso found the back of the net for the first time this season and gave the 'Cats a 2-1 lead late in regulation.

The lead would not last as the Beavers would score a game-tying goal to force overtime on their home pitch.

FREE SOCCER

NMU was able to take the first shot of overtime after a corner kick. The shot from Caroline Halonen went high.

In the end, Bemidji was able to score the golden goal in the 94th minute and take the 3-2 win.

STAT LEADERS

The Wildcats finished the game with seven more shots than the Beavers (20-13) and three more corner kicks (7-4).

The visiting team also had the advantage in time of possession in the match. NMU had the ball for 55-percent of the contest.

Halonen led the 'Cats in shots with six total and one on goal. Pietila and L'Esperance tied for the team lead in shots on goal with two each.

In goal, Shenae Kreps collected four saves in 94 minutes of goalkeeping for the Wildcats. 

UP NEXT

NMU begins Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play this week with a home match against Grand Valley State University. The Lakers and Wildcats are set to clash in Marquette at 3 p.m. on Friday.