MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — Minnesota St. extended its unbeaten streak to five matches with a 2-0 victory over Augustana (SD) on Friday, maintaining its perfect home record. The Mavericks, undefeated at 14-0-2, controlled the second half to break through against the visiting Vikings, who entered the contest at 10-3-3.
The first 45 minutes produced few clear-cut opportunities despite Minnesota St.'s territorial advantage. Augustana (SD) created the match's best early chance when Sydney Hage fired wide in the 3rd minute, while Madelyn White tested the Mavericks' defense with efforts in the 16th and 27th minutes. Minnesota St. responded with multiple blocked shots from Reese Hilsenbeck, Courtney Kovacs, and Savanna Stockness, but neither team could find the breakthrough before halftime.
Minnesota St. emerged with renewed intensity after the interval, immediately applying pressure that forced Augustana (SD) into a defensive posture. The Mavericks' persistence paid dividends in the 62nd minute when Courtney Kovacs converted from close range following a corner kick, giving the hosts their first lead of the match.
Augustana (SD) mounted a brief response, with Ally Hamski testing the Minnesota St. goalkeeper in the 48th minute, but the Vikings could not sustain offensive momentum. The Mavericks sealed the result in the 81st minute when Addison Clarey finished from inside the box, assisted by Reese Hilsenbeck and Courtney Kovacs, effectively