The Northern Michigan University women’s soccer team split on their two-game season-opening trip to Indianapolis last weekend.

“When you can go on the road and get a split, it’s a great weekend,” said head coach Matt Granstrand.

The ‘Cats (1-1) won 2-1 against the St. Joseph’s Pumas (0-2) on Friday, Aug. 28 with goals from freshman Amelia Johnson and sophomore Missy Mohr. Teammates Becky Schmidt and Brekelle Sellers picked up assists.

The Puma’s lone goal came in the form of an NMU own-goal.
Senior goaltender Kara Music backstopped the ‘Cats, allowing one goal while making two saves.

“We played a great game on Friday,” said Granstrand.

The team was less successful Saturday, losing to the University of Indianapolis (2-0) by a score of 4-1. Becky Schmidt scored NMU’s only tally, an unassisted on a 50-yard free kick. The ‘Cats were outshot 12-6 in the contest.

“We had one or two defensive, learning-curve mistakes with our young defense against Indy,” Granstrand said. “Give (Indy) credit, they’re a great team.”

Despite the loss, Granstrand was especially impressed by the play of his midfielders.

“I thought (they were) really strong,” he said. “I think they all did a great job.”

Up next for the Wildcats is a road trip to Minnesota for games against Concordia-St. Paul and University of Minnesota-Duluth.

“They’re both quality teams,” said Granstrand. Concordia-St. Paul recently battled to a 1-1 tie with fifth-ranked UW-Parkside.

Overall, Granstrand is pleased with the season’s beginning.
“You go on the road and get the split and you try to win your home games, and I think we’re off to a pretty good start.”