EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Missouri State women's soccer wasted no time setting the tone on the road Sunday afternoon, riding a dominant first-half performance from Abby Hansen to a 4-2 victory over SIUE  to give the Bears their first victory of the season. Hansen played a role in three of the Bears' four goals, tallying two assists and a highlight-reel strike from outside the box.

The Bears came out sharp from the opening whistle, breaking through in just the second minute when Abby Hansen set up Julia Kristensen with a through ball for the first goal of the game at the 1:28 mark. Missouri State continued to dictate the pace with patient buildups and composed attacking play, stretching the Cougar defense and finding quality looks.

In the 15th minute, the Bears doubled their lead off a set piece, as Abby Hansen's corner connected with Jane Hansen, who delivered a pass to senior forward Reilly Heman bringing the score to 2-0. Missouri State extended its advantage once again when Abby Hansen fired a first-time strike from outside the box in the 18th minute, placing it into the top left corner to make it 3-0 for the Bears.

The Bears midfield kept the game flowing in their favor, controlling possession and keeping SIUE pinned back. While the Cougars pulled one back on an own goal, the Missouri State responded immediately. In the 38th minute, Brooke Cattoor calmly converted from the penalty spot to extend the lead to 4-1 heading into halftime.

The second half saw Missouri State continue to apply pressure, cutting off passing lanes and stopping SIUE's attack until the Cougars managed a second goal in the 68th minute. Just moments later, the game nearly shifted when SIUE earned a penalty in the 78th minute, but goalkeeper Victoria Spahn stood her ground, making two incredible back-to-back saves to preserve the two-goal cushion. The Bears closed out the match strongly, finishing with a 4-2 win.

"Very pleased with how fast and intense our team came out today to put in a few goals early." said head coach Kirk Nelson. "A key for us moving forward is maintaining that energy and keeping the shutout. But excited for the win and getting three points on the road."

With the victory, Missouri State improves to 1-2-1 on the season and carries momentum into their next matchup. The Bears will wrap up their road swing on Thursday, Aug. 28, when they face SEMO at 4:00 p.m.