BEMIDJI, Minn. - The Missouri Western soccer team (1-0) kicked off the 2024 season with a 1-0 shutout victory against the defending NSIC Tournament champion Bemidji State Beavers (0-1) on Friday afternoon.
 
"It was a great redemption game for Lauren Nylund," commented head coach Jacob Plocher. "She gave up the penalty kick late last year that allowed them to tie the game. It was satisfying to see her score this time and help maintain the shutout for the win."
 
Nylund, a senior defender from San Antonio, Texas, headed in her second career goal in the 35th minute off a well-placed free kick from Katelynn Rowland to give Griffons an early 1-0 advantage. Rowland added a team-leading two shots on goal, while Elisabeth Pujado fired off a match-leading four shots (one on goal).
 
Senior Keeley Kroonenberg (1-0) earned her sixth career shutout in goal for Western. The native of Highlands Ranch, Colorado faced seven shots and collected on save. Five different Griffons played the full 90 minutes in the defensive showcase.
 
MWSU will travel to Aberdeen, South Dakota, to compete against the Northern State Wolves of the NSIC. Action at the Athletic & Recreation Fields will be broadcast live on the NSIC Network at 1:00 p.m.