North Michigan News

The Northern Michigan University (NMU) women's soccer team was defeated 4-0 by Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) in a match held at University Center, Michigan.

The Wildcats, who now hold a record of 3-5-4 overall and 3-4-1 in the GLIAC conference, managed to secure six corner kicks compared to SVSU's four. However, they were outshot by the Cardinals, with SVSU recording 17 shots to NMU's 10. The difference was more pronounced in shots on target, where SVSU had ten and NMU only one.

SVSU opened the scoring in the 28th minute when Abby Ellis lifted the ball into the air for it to fall just between NMU goalkeeper Jillian Thompson and the crossbar. "The Cardinals were able to open the scoring in the 28th minute after Abby Ellis popped the ball nearly straight up into the air for it to fall just between Jillian Thompson and the crossbar."

In the second half, SVSU added three more goals through effective counterattacks. "SVSU would then tack on three more scores in the second half with strong counterattacks."

Early in the match, both teams tested each other's defenses. The Wildcats applied pressure down both flanks and created an early corner kick opportunity within three minutes of kickoff. Madison Bilbia forced a diving save from SVSU goalkeeper Lainey Garbarz with a shot toward goal.

Saginaw Valley responded with attacks of their own but were denied by Thompson on several occasions during the first half. The Cardinals maintained possession for much of this period and earned multiple corner kicks, but NMU’s defense prevented further damage before halftime.

Later in the first half, Hannah Kastamo set up Alyse Daavettila for a header that missed narrowly left. Soon after, Abby Ellis scored for SVSU following a counterattack.

After halftime, NMU again pressed forward but conceded a goal in the 51st minute after an SVSU takeaway led to Laureyn Fracassi's attempt being saved by Thompson; however, Fracassi scored on her own rebound. A few minutes later, Madi Bajis increased SVSU’s lead after receiving a pass from Kaley Douglass.

Northern Michigan continued attacking efforts with another corner kick opportunity at around sixty minutes played but could not convert as Irene Kiilunen’s header went wide right. Rileigh Garbarz later made it 4-0 off an assist from Maddie White.

Despite late attempts from Olivia Moreno and additional corners won by NMU, Saginaw Valley State preserved its clean sheet until full time.

Looking ahead, Northern Michigan will face Davenport Panthers on October 19 at Grand Rapids with kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m.