MARQUETTE, Mich. — Northern Mich. defeated Davenport 4-0 on Sunday at NMU Soccer Field. The Wildcats capitalized with two goals in each half, while the Panthers managed 11 shots, with five on target.
The first half began with Davenport's
Elizabeth Wolter taking position as goalkeeper. Northern Michigan took an early lead with a goal by Kastamo in the second minute, assisted by Frantti and Ellis. The Panthers responded with attempts on goal, including shots by Wilcox and
Ella Chatfield, but were unable to convert these into scores.
As the half progressed, Davenport continued to press, with
Megan Malek's shot saved by Northern Michigan's Sides. Despite multiple attempts by the Panthers, including a shot from Wilcox in the bottom left corner, the team was unable to find the back of the net. Northern Michigan extended their lead with a goal by Kiilunen in the 37th minute. The half closed with Davenport trailing 2-0.
The second half opened with DU pressing forward, securing two early corner kicks within the first two minutes. Despite maintaining offensive pressure, including a shot on goal by Wilcox in the 54th minute, the team was unable to convert opportunities into scores. Northern Michigan capitalized on their chances, with Frantti scoring in the 65th minute, extending their lead.
Davenport continued to fight back with attempts from
Alexis Martinez and
Sofia Capoccia, both saved by Sides. Northern Michigan found the net again late in the half, with Kiilunen scoring in the 88th minute. The half concluded with Davenport trailing 4-0.
Wolter recorded seven saves on 23 shots faced before being relieved by
Bailey Gauthier in the 88th minute. Wilcox led the team with four shots, with two of those on target. Capoccia managed to keep pressure on the opposing defense with her single shot on goal. Malek contributed offensively with one shot, which was also on goal.
Sides delivered a strong performance in goal, securing a clean sheet with five saves from 11 shots faced, contributing to Northern Michigan's defensive success. Kastamo was pivotal in the team's offense, scoring one goal and providing an assist. She led the team with six shots, two on target, and registered a game-winning goal. Frantti also made a significant impact, scoring one goal and assisting another, with her three shots bolstering the attack. Ellis added an assist, enhancing the team's offensive efforts, while Kiilunen scored twice from two shots, further solidifying Northern Michigan's attack.
In a strong showing, Sides recorded five saves and secured a shutout as the goalkeeper for Northern Michigan. Kastamo contributed significantly in the field, scoring one goal and providing one assist, while also leading the team with six shots, including two on goal. Frantti added to the offensive effort with a goal and an assist, attempting three shots with one on target. Kiilunen was also effective, netting two goals from her two shots on target. Ellis provided a crucial assist, contributing to the team's overall performance.
The Panthers return to GLIAC play on Friday, Oct. 3, when they travel to Hammond, Ind. to face Purdue Northwest.
