MARYVILLE, Mo. - The Northwest Missouri State women's soccer team produced a 1-0 victory Sunday over the visiting Nebraska-Kearney Lopers.
 
Northwest improved their record 9-3-0 and 6-1-0 in the MIAA, while Nebraska-Kearney drops their record to 2-7-4 and 0-4-4 in the conference. This is the Bearcats sixth win in the last seven games.
 
The first half began with UNK initiating early pressure, accruing two corner kicks in the first two minutes. Northwest Missouri State responded with consistent offensive efforts, exemplified by Makenna West's persistence in the attacking third. West's breakthrough came in the 19th minute, capitalizing on an assist from Abby Overbay to put Northwest on the scoreboard. This marked West's fifth goal of the 2025 season and her eighth career goal for Northwest.
 
Despite the Lopers' attempts to equalize, keeper Lily Ellis maintained a clean sheet with timely saves, particularly in the closing minutes of the half. This shutout was Ellis's eighth of the season and the 35th of her career. Northwest ended the first half leading 1-0, holding the momentum with a solid defensive display while keeping offensive pressure on the visitors.
 
The second half began with Northwest Missouri State maintaining their defensive structure and countering UNK's offensive efforts. Ximena Arnau's shot in the 56th minute marked a near opportunity, though it went over the crossbar. The Bearcats continued to apply pressure with a series of corner kicks and attempts on goal, notably from West, whose efforts were consistently challenged by visiting goalkeeper Susie Bovaird.
 
Ellis made crucial saves against shots from Iliana Wurzbacher and Daniella Iaquinta, preserving the Bearcats' lead. Despite numerous offensive attempts, the half concluded with neither team finding the back of the net, maintaining Northwest Missouri State's 1-0 advantage at the final whistle.
 
Ellis recorded six saves and secured a shutout in Northwest Missouri State's latest match. West contributed decisively with one goal, which was also the game-winner, while tallying five shots on target out of nine attempts. Overbay provided an assist, adding to the team's offensive efforts.
 
Up Next: 
The Bearcats will travel to Joplin, Mo., to face Missouri Southern on October 24 at 6 p.m.