New Ulm, MN - The MLC women's soccer team entered Wednesday's home contest against Minnesota Morris without two its top players in the Schroeder sisters (Hannah and Rebekah). As a result, the Knights would have to find ways to step and fill the void and they did so with solid intensity on defense and relentless pursuit of the ball at all times. MLC fought hard to end the game in a draw 1-1, after a runaway goal in the 84th minute by Katie Schoeneck. The goal gave the Knights a late-game push and the effort continued in the final minutes, as MLC had another opportunity at the net to win the game with around five minutes remaining when Naomi Foley missed a shot to the left.

The Cougars scored first in the ball game at the 29:26 mark of the first period, when Kim Peters found space for the goal. Hajaysen Kwateh recorded the assist and the defender provided a challenge all game for the Knights, as she used her speed and awareness on the field to prevent MLC scoring chances.

As a team, MLC had eight shots on goal, with six of them coming from the Schoeneck sisters (Katie and Rachel).

Karissa Holdcroft got the start at goalkeeper in replace of Schroeder, who was coming off a UMAC Player of the Week award. Holdcoft held her own as the goalie, picking up four saves and just the one goal allowed.

Overall, the Knights made strides in the conference opener, displaying better communication on the field and were able to gain control of the ball for long stretches of time.

Up next for MLC (1-3-1) is a trip up to northern Wisconsin on Saturday, when they play Northland College for their second conference game of the season. The game is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m.