The University of Minnesota Duluth soccer team took a trip to Nemzek Field for some afternoon play against Minnesota State Moorhead.

The teams entered the game back-to-back in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference standings, with the playoffs rapidly approaching. UMD was hoping to extend their lead, while MSUM was competing for the chance to move up. 

The Bulldogs emerged ahead at the final whistle, 2-1. Senior goalkeeper Abbie Gotham started her first game of the season and made a total of five saves.

The Dragons had more shots early and while the Bulldogs caught up, UMD still hadn't had any real scoring opportunities. MSUM looked for a goal off a corner kick, but Baamlak Haugen was able to stop the ball from crossing the line, keeping the game scoreless.

With ten minutes left in the first half, the Bulldogs made a strong offensive rush, with a cross-net pass from Anna Tobias to Morgan Eckerle. She scored, giving UMD the first lead of the game and momentum that would last for the rest of the game.

Despite the Dragon's early chances, the Bulldogs were able to turn the game momentum around towards the end of the first half. Going into the break, they led in scoring and shots (10-6). They also tied MSUM in shots on net (4), taking over the opportunities late.

Seven minutes in the second, a Dragon corner kick led to a scramble in front of the net. MSUM headed the ball in and tied the game.

Jackie Jares took a penalty shot later, with the chance to regain UMD's lead, but could not get it past the goaltender. Soon after, Jares took another look. Her rebound went to Victoria Thorson, who tapped it in. The Bulldogs had their one-goal lead back and had doubled the Dragons in shots (20-10) with 20 minutes left.

Through the final stages of the game, UMD controlled play.

The Bulldogs play on the road again Sunday, Oct. 14 against Northern State at 1 p.m.