ST. PAUL, Minn. – The St. Catherine University soccer team earned a 1-0 victory over Hamline University on Tuesday afternoon at St. Kate's Field, using a second-half goal from Bella Meier and a strong defensive performance to secure another Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) win.
With the victory, St. Catherine improved to 11-3-1 overall and 7-1-1 in conference play.
The Wildcats controlled the offensive tempo throughout the contest, outshooting the Pipers 29-5 and holding a 14-0 advantage in corner kicks.
Despite a steady offensive attack in the opening half, St. Catherine entered halftime in a scoreless tie. The Wildcats recorded nine shots and seven corner kicks in the first 45 minutes, forcing Hamline goalkeeper Sharis Garcia to make five saves.
St. Catherine broke through in the 51st minute when Meier found the back of the net at the 50:27 mark. Assisted by Ceci Emery, Meier's seventh goal of the season gave the Wildcats a 1-0 advantage that held for the remainder of the match.
The Wildcats continued to pressure Hamline throughout the second half, recording 20 shots over the final 45 minutes.
Meier led the offensive effort with a game-high 10 shots, including five on goal. Emily Henaman added five shots with three on target, while Emily Olson contributed four shots and two on goal. Emery finished with two shots and the assist on the game-winning goal.
Defensively, St. Catherine limited Hamline to just five shots, including two on goal. Goalkeeper Brianna Valdez played all 90 minutes, recording two saves to earn the shutout.
The Wildcats return to St. Kate's Field on Saturday hosting Augsburg University at 1 pm for Senior Day.
