KEARNEY, Neb. — Neb.-Kearney earned a 2-0 victory over Rogers St. on Friday, snapping a winless streak with two second-half goals. The Lopers controlled the match's decisive period to secure their first win in three games, while the Hillcats' offensive pressure throughout the first half went unrewarded.
Jordan Renard opened scoring in the 62nd minute, assisted by Iliana Wurzbacher and Kea Barnes. Kea Barnes added the clinching goal in the 63rd minute with Shaeley Reichmuth providing the assist. The two quick strikes proved decisive in a competitive Division II matchup between regional conference opponents.
Rogers St. generated significant attacking opportunities early, with Kenzie Macklin and Amber Arnold testing the Lopers' defense in the opening half. The Hillcats' aggressive approach produced eight corner kicks compared to Neb.-Kearney's five, yet neither team converted chances into goals before intermission. Macklin's shot sailed high in the 9th minute, while Arnold's attempt went wide moments later.
The second half saw Neb.-Kearney shift momentum decisively. After halftime substitutions refreshed both lineups, the Lopers' midfield controlled possession and created clearer scoring opportunities. Rogers St. mounted a response with multiple attempts, including shots from Kelsey Hogan and Brooke Hartshorn, but the Lopers' defense held firm. Hogan's effort sailed high in the 54th minute, while Hartshorn's attempt went low and wide