ST. PAUL, Minn. — The St. Catherine University soccer team scored twice in the final six minutes to rally past the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 2-1, Saturday afternoon at St. Kate's Field.
The Wildcats controlled much of the action offensively, out shooting the Blugolds 19-7 and putting 11 attempts on goal. Despite the pressure, the match remained scoreless through the opening 79 minutes before UW-Eau Claire broke through at 79:49 to take a 1-0 lead.
St. Kate's answered less than five minutes later. In the 85th minute, Lydia Benson found the equalizer off an assist from Jaidyn Richter, scoring her first goal of the season to pull the Wildcats even at 1-1.
The Wildcats weren't finished.
After earning a corner in the 87th minute, Bella Meier put St. Kate's in front at 86:53. Meier's initial attempt was saved, but she converted the ensuing opportunity for her second goal of the season, with Ceci Emery credited with the assist.
St. Catherine's defense held the Blugolds off the board over the final three minutes to secure the comeback victory.
Meier led the Wildcats' attack with six shots, including four on goal, while Emily Henaman and Emily Olson each finished with three attempts. Richter added two shots to go along with her assist, and Charlotte Willems recorded two shots.
In goal, Brianna Valdez played all 90 minutes and made two saves while allowing just one goal to earn the victory.
St. Kate's will open the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) schedule on Wednesday at Macalester College at 7:30 pm.
