SPRINGFIELD - Freshman forward Joey Fosnow's game winning goal in the 54th minute, along with sophomore midfielder Kaeli Benedict's insurance score in the 67th minute, propelled Missouri State women's soccer to its' first victory on the season here Thursday in a 2-0 decision over visiting SEMO. 
 
The victory also was a first as head coach for Kirk Nelson, who took over for the team this season, replacing the program's founding head coach Rob Brewer who retired in January.

Freshman midfielder Hailey Chambliss assisted on Fosnow's goal, and junior defender Carly Raunig assisted Benedict's.

Despite both goals coming in the final 45 minutes, there was no shortage of scoring opportunities for the Bears in the first half. MSU (1-1-1) outshot SEMO (1-2-0), 10-2, in the first half and 18-6 for the game.
 
With 10 out of 30 Bears being new to the team this season, Nelson sees his returners positively influence the newcomers.  
 
"You can see that from our senior leadership, all the way down to our freshmen, they're getting time, they're getting the minutes, and they're going in each day and training," Nelson said. "As you can see, it resulted in some goals for us… I think they're in a good mindset."

Fosnow again was a key component in the Bears' attack. On top of her second half goal, the freshman standout registered three shots, including two on goal. Chambliss totaled two shots (one on goal) and one assist, while sophomore forward Grace O'Keefe accounted for two shots, including one on goal 
 
Looking ahead, the Bears continue their home stand on Sunday at 3 p.m. with a non-conference matchup against Tulsa.  Admission is free for all Bears home games this season.