NORTHWOOD, Ohio — Northwood defeated Malone 1-0 on Thursday, extending its winning streak to two games with a decisive late-match goal. Mari Jackson broke through in the 82nd minute to secure the victory for the regional powerhouse, improving their record to 9-1-5 while Malone fell to 5-8-3.
The match remained scoreless through 81 minutes of competitive Division II soccer, with both teams creating chances but neither finding the breakthrough. Northwood dominated possession and shot attempts, recording 15 total shots compared to Malone's nine, though the Pioneers' defense kept the contest tight throughout regulation.
Jackson's winning goal came late in the second half when she capitalized on a scoring opportunity set up by teammates Ella Boyd and Carly Boyd. The strike proved decisive in a match where neither goalkeeper was severely tested, with each recording five saves.
Northwood controlled the tempo from the opening kickoff, generating five corner kicks to Malone's four. The home side's pressure mounted steadily, particularly after halftime when the Wildcats made seven substitutions to refresh their lineup. Annaliese Sabo received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 38th minute, the match's only disciplinary action.
Malone's attack featured efforts from Brynn Mowrer and Hannah Hubbard, who tested Northwood's defense with multiple attempts throughout the contest. The Pioneers' best chances came late, with Gracie Ashton and Aubree Mellana generating opportunities in the final stages, but Northwood's goalkeeper stood firm.