WMC: 1 MCC: 0

The warriors knew that their matchup with the crusaders would be tough as MCC looked to create another result. Last time these two teams met, it would end in a 0 - 0 draw, however, not indicative in the reality of the game. Last night's match would tell the same story. 

In the first 10 minutes, WMC was trying to find their rhythm. Eventually, WMC would find it and would have multiple chances in the first half to put the game away. However, that is where the warriors struggled all game. The warriors generated 4 breakaways in the first half and three of those shots were drilled off frame over the goal. One of those attempts was hit straight to the crusader's keeper to make an easy save. 

The first and only goal wouldn't come until 20 minutes into the first half. Brooklyn Watts (So.) would strike a ball outside of the 18 that looked like it would slip under the crossbar and beat the keeper, however, it hit crossbar and cleared back out of the box. Maria Eenigenburg (Fr.) would find that 30 yard rebound and float it over the keeper to put the warriors up 1 - 0. From there, the warriors found new steam and would find a few more quality opportunities, however, poor technical execution inside the box would lead to missed chances to run away with the game. 

The warriors came out in the second half knowing that the crusaders would battle. MCC would generate some attack right from the kick-off and WMC would have to find their rhythm again. There would be a few more chances for the warriors, one in particular off a corner kick. Nadia Burr (So.) stepped up to send in a cross that curved towards the back post. WMC would find a way to put it in the back of the net, however, the official would then call off the goal for handling in the box. This was another unfortunate call against the warriors that would set them back, however, they kept fighting against the odds. Sydney Betten (Sr.) would find a great opportunity that sailed a few inches above the crossbar. Later, Ally Oppenhuizen (Jr.) would find her way on a breakaway but place it over the goal. 

As the clock ticked down, MCC would send more players forward in a desperation attempt to even the score. This caused issues for the warriors and would result to 6 fouls that led to free kicks 30 - 40 yards out. The crusaders would find a great ball in with 3 players running towards Libby Mast (Sr.). Fortunately, Libby Mast was able to scoop it off to eliminate their chance. MCC would apply the pressure and WMC struggled to manage the game well, however, were able to step off the field with a needed win. 

Libby Mast had 9 saves on the night. 

Coach Pekel had this to say about the game, "We have to be better at finishing our chances, period. We put ourselves in these tight scorelines when it's not indicative of the reality of the quality chances we create. We just have to be composed and smart in those moments." 

WMC is now 6-5-4 overall and 5-0-2 in Lakes 8 Conference play. WMC will play Covenant Christian on Friday and then take on the cardinals of Orchard View on Monday at home for senior night.