SPRINGFIELD – The Missouri State women's soccer team grabbed its second victory of 2020-21 as it defeated the Missouri Southern Lions, 3-1, Friday night at Allison South Stadium.
 
The Bears got on the board early as Abby Couch scored on a header off a beautiful cross from Jacqueline Baetz to take the early 1-0 lead in the 16th minute.
 
Minutes later, MSU struck again -- this time courtesy of a penalty kick from Kate Schroeder in the 17^th minute to increase the lead, 2-0. The Bears held Missouri Southern at bay the rest of the first half to take a two-goal cushion into intermission.
 
"I am very pleased with how we started the match," Missouri State head women's soccer coach Rob Brewer said. "We came out with good energy and created some good chances. I felt confident going into the break leading 2-0." 
 
Nearly 12 minutes into the second half, the visitors responded, as Ashley Koepp scored off an assist from Meredith Belrose to cut the MSU lead to 2-1.
 
Maddie Augustine sealed the win for the Bears in the 88th minute when she capitalized off a deflection give the Bears insurance and ultimately the 3-1 win.
 
"Unfortunately, we didn't have the same energy and let MSSU back into the game with a counter-attack goal," Brewer acknowledged. "Maddie Augustine had a well-placed finish to seal the match for us."
 
MSU outshot the visitors 17-6 overall and 12-5 in shots on goal, both were season highs for the Bears. Missouri State also created plenty of offensive opportunities on corner kicks, finishing with an 8-2 advantage.
 
Three goalkeepers saw action for MSU.  Katie Montgomery started the match and recorded two saves in 45 minutes of action. Camielle Day then relieved Montgomery, making two saves and allowing one goal in 22 minutes of action. While Hannah Peterson finished the match having no opportunities in the final 22 minutes of play.
 
"We have been working on our attacking and set pieces and it paid off today," reflected Brewer. "Jacqueline Baetz has done well in her new role playing forward. Anna Durnin Abby Couch, Sierra Fury and Isabel Burke all played well today."
 
The Bears (2-5-2) will be back in action again on Wednesday (March 24) at 7 p.m. as they resume Missouri Valley Conference play at Drake (1-2-1).