MVC Release

ST. LOUIS – Freshman forward Kennady Orlick and sophomore goalkeeper Kaitlin Maxwell each played key roles in Saturday's 1-0 shutout against Northern Iowa, earning them Missouri Valley Conference Women's Soccer newcomer and defensive player of the week laurels, respectively, as announced by the league Monday.

Orlick's go-ahead goal in the first half helped solidify Missouri State's first conference win of the season. The Raymore, Mo. native would be the lone scorer in the contest at the 23-minute mark, bouncing the long distance shot off the post to put the Bears ahead 1-0. The goal marked her fourth game-winner of the season, and she currently ranks sixth nationally in go-ahead scoring.

On the defensive side, Maxwell was impressive in goal collecting 10 saves, including an outstanding tip at the 88-minute mark to keep the Panthers off the board. The 10 saves marked Maxwell's third time reaching double digits this season. Her efforts are among the best in the country, with her save count ranking fourth nationally. The Lincoln, Neb. native also leads the conference in overall saves.

The honors mark the first MVC Player of the Week nod for both Maxwell and Orlick.

The Bears (7-6, 1-1 MVC) return home to Betty and Bobby Allison South Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 6 to face Indiana State with kick off slated for 2 p.m.

For all the latest information on the Missouri State women's soccer team, visit MissouriStateBears.com or follow @MSUBearsWSoccer on Twitter.