BEMIDJI, Minn. — Bemidji State University soccer secured a 2-0 victory over the University of Minnesota Crookston on Friday at Chet Anderson Stadium. The home team dominated with 14 shots, eight of which were on target and maintained a clean sheet throughout the match. Bemidji State scored once in each half, with the game-winning goal coming early in the contest. Their defense held Minnesota Crookston to just two shots, neither of which were on target, ensuring a shutout performance.
 
The first half began with Bemidji State and Minnesota Crookston both looking to establish control. Bemidji State applied early pressure, with Megan Ko taking a shot at the 5th minute that was saved by Jordan Metz. The home team continued to create opportunities, culminating in a goal by Tessa Czajkowski Higgins in the 42nd minute, assisted by Marielle Wright, giving them a 1-0 lead. This goal marked her first career goal, adding a memorable milestone to the match. UMC struggled to find their rhythm, recording two fouls and an offside call, while Bemidji State maintained their defensive stronghold to end the half ahead.
 
Katrina Barthelt scored the decisive goal for Bemidji State in the 71st minute, extending their lead to 2-0 against UMC. Bemidji State maintained offensive pressure throughout the second half, with Barthelt attempting an earlier shot in the 47th minute that was saved by UMC's goalkeeper, Jordan Metz. The home team consistently created opportunities, earning multiple corner kicks and registering several shots, though they were caught offside three times. The Golden Eagles were unable to respond, and the match ended with Bemidji State securing the victory.
 
Barthelt scored one goal and took four shots, with three on target. Higgins netted a goal, which was also the game-winner, on her only shot of the match. Sonia Alfieri played all 90 minutes in goal, securing a shutout without needing to make a save. Wright contributed with an assist, helping set up one of the team's goals.
 
Bemidji State stands at 7-2-3 overall and 5-1-3 in conference play following their victory. The Golden Eagles hold a record of 1-9-2 overall and 0-8-1 in conference competition. They head on the road to Minnesota State University Moorhead Sunday to take on the Dragons at 1 p.m. All NSIC matches are available on the NSIC Network. 
 
For more information on the Bemidji State athletic programs, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on Twitter/X (@BSUBeavers), or like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers).
 
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's hockey in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and women's hockey in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).