WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Midwestern State (1-1-3, 1-0-1) secured a 2-1 victory over UT Dallas (4-1-1, 1-1-0) at Stang Park on Saturday, with all three goals scored in the second half.
The first half between Midwestern State and UT Dallas ended scoreless despite several attempts from both teams. Midwestern State showed early offensive pressure with Morgan Countryman and Nyxalee Munoz taking shots within the first six minutes, though neither found the target. Tanner Sorenson, in goal for the Mustangs, made a crucial save against Kira Schkade's shot in the 9th minute and later stopped Chelsea Vilca's attempt in the 39th minute. The Maroon & Gold also earned three corner kicks, with the first coming at the 23rd minute, but were unable to capitalize on these opportunities. The Comets' defense held strong, with McKenzie Hunninghake saving Ashlynn Knight's shot in the 23rd minute, keeping the match tightly contested as the first half concluded.
Midwestern State took control early in the second half, with Taryn Sueltz scoring in the 57th minute to break the deadlock. Munoz extended MSU's lead to 2-0 with a goal in the 64th minute, assisted by Leeci Snyder. UT Dallas responded quickly with a goal by Gabby Thompson in the 71st minute, narrowing the score to 2-1. Despite UT Dallas's efforts, including a series of shots and a goalkeeping save by Sorenson, the Mustangs maintained their lead, securing a 2-1 victory.
Munoz scored one goal for the Maroon & Gold, which was crucial as it marked the game-winner among her four shots. Sueltz also added a goal, finding the net with her only shot of the match. Snyder contributed with an assist and attempted one shot. In goal, Sorenson made three saves while facing seven shots, allowing just one goal in the full 90 minutes.
Hunninghake stood out for UTD with five saves, facing 17 shots and conceding two goals in a complete 90-minute performance. Thompson contributed offensively by scoring one goal on two shots, with one shot on goal. Schkade made her presence felt on the defense with one shot, which was on goal, as she helped maintain the team's defensive structure.
Looking ahead, the Mustangs will host Lubbock Christian on Sept. 24. The match is set to take place at 7 p.m. at Stang Park, where the home team will aim to capitalize on their familiar surroundings.
