Minneapolis, MN -- North Central University (NCU) women's soccer took to Elliot Park Field for a mid-season scrimmage against the visiting Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) Blue Knights. Today's match would not be a countable NCAA contest as the Blue Knights are members of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II. However, North Central got a good battle today from DCTC as the teams remained tied 1-1 after 90 minutes of play. Sophomore Paula Capili scored the Rams' lone goal off the assist from defender Ramiyah Words.

The first half started off with a slower pace, as neither team was able to break through the defense for a goal-scoring opportunity. Eventually, the Blue Knights got through the NCU defense and scored the first goal of the game in the 18th minute of the match. The pace then ramped up as the teams were firing shots on goal. The Rams totaled 10 shots compared to 8 by the Blue Knights in the first 45 minutes. Team chaplain and midfielder Madeline Lowe was able to put a couple of strong right-footed strikes on target, but none found the back of the net. Goalkeeper Erma Ramirez reeled in 5 saves in the first half as the Rams trailed 1-0. 

In the second half, the shot totals flipped as North Central took 7 shots to Dakota County's 10. However, shots were finding the net with less accuracy as only 6 of those were on target. One of those included a goal in the 63rd minute by forward Paula Capili of the pass from teammate Ramiyah Words. Madeline Lowe led the Rams with 4 total shots (3 SOG) and Deshawna Hodges, Capili, and Words all had 3 shots of their own. Erma Ramirez finished the game with 9 total saves on the afternoon, as North Central found themselves tied 1-1 when things were said and done. 

Today's box score can be found here.


Looking Ahead:

Up next, the Rams jump back into UMAC play this weekend as North Central plays the University of Northwestern this Saturday, September 28th. Kick-off is set for 2:00 PM. 

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X) pages for updates on women's soccer and all things NCU Athletics.