WINONA LAKE, Ind. – The Marian Women's Soccer team held off an upset-minded Grace with two late goals to put the Knights the on top. The 2-1 win advances the Knight's record to 2-1-1 in Crossroads League play and 9-1-2 on the season.
The Knights started off defensively with the Lancers getting the first six shots of game. Mycheala Johnson and the Knight's defense held off the attackers until the Knights got their first opportunity in 18th minute. Kiley Jones took the first shot for the Knights with Sophie Decker taking another a few minutes later. Possession went back and forth between the two teams with neither team being able to get their offense flowing. The first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate Marian trailing Grace 8-4 in shots.
Similar to the first half, the host went on the offensive with four corner kicks and three shots in the opening 11 minutes. Marian tried to respond with a shot from Delaney Taylor, but the shot missed wide of the goal. Grace found the back of the net in the 60th minute, putting the Lancer's up 1-0. After trading a few shots, Marian answered in the 83rd minute with a goal from Olivia Palmer, assisted by Decker. Almost a minute later Taylor's shot went past the keeper giving Marian the 2-1 lead. Grace tried to counter taking three shots in the in final six minutes, but the Knight's defense held strong.
In Marian's ten shots, three were on frame, with seven players taking at least one attempt. Decker, Palmer, and Taylor each took two shots. Decker dished out the assist to Palmer's goal and Taylor scored the game winner. Johnson was productive in goal, making six saves and allowing one goal in 90 minutes of action.
Marian will return home for a repeat of the 2022 NAIA National Championship game, taking on No. 2 Spring Arbor on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Eastern.
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