Concordia women’s soccer defeats the College of Saint Mary in a back-and-forth game
Senior midfielder Elena Ruiz runs the ball down the field to score a goal (photo from 2024 season).
Photo credit: Josiah Seabaugh
By Kai Olbrich
Sports Editor
After going ahead early, the Concordia University women’s soccer team needed two second-half goals to reestablish its lead over Great Plains Athletic Conference foes, the College of Saint Mary, and win 3-1 on Sept. 24.
The teams were very even on the shot count, with the Bulldogs leading 15-13 and 11-10 for shots on goal. Senior Kierstynn Garner produced five of the 15 Concordia shots and contributed two goals.
Garner netted the first goal of the game in the second minute off an assist from junior Sadie Mares. It wasn’t until the second half that the College of Saint Mary would equalize. A rebound from Bella Olsen leveled the game at one a piece.
The Bulldogs didn’t take long to respond as Garner grabbed her second goal just six minutes after the score was tied. Concordia clinched the victory in the 77th minute when senior Sierra Springer notched the third of the match.
Sophomore Aliya Vidro was nearly impassable in the Concordia net as she made nine saves and conceded just one goal.
The Bulldogs and back in action on Sept. 27 as they will look to take down Briar Cliff in the first home GPAC game of the season. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
