Minneapolis, MN – Wednesday afternoon, the North Central University (NCU) women's soccer team returned to Elliot Park Field for their rematch with cross-town rival, the University of Northwestern (UNW) Eagles. The Rams came into the contest looking to build off lessons from their previous meeting just a week earlier. While the result didn't swing their way, NCU battled from start to finish, highlighted by another determined effort from senior goalkeeper Erma Ramirez, who finished the afternoon with 16 saves on 25 shots on goal.

The opening 45 minutes saw North Central's back line under heavy pressure early as Northwestern unleashed a barrage of shots from distance and close range. Senior Erma Ramirez stood tall between the posts, registering multiple diving stops and controlling several dangerous corner kicks. Freshman Ellison Powell and sophomore Joyce Horton played pivotal roles in clearing attacks inside the box, while Abbey Korpi and Anna Deichert worked to settle play through the midfield. Despite a challenging stretch midway through the half, the Rams continued to battle. Late in the period, Rhaina Boggess sparked the team's energy with a strong individual run into the attacking third, forcing a defensive clearance. North Central entered halftime trailing 5-0, but the effort level and communication along the back line remained steady as they limited quality chances down the stretch.

North Central showed greater composure to open the second frame, stringing together their most productive offensive spell of the match. Junior forward Paula Capili created the Rams' first shot on goal in the 71st minute with a well-placed strike that tested the opposing goalkeeper. The team continued to push forward, earning three corner kicks in the half, each creating traffic in the box as Boggess and Hannah Wolf pressured the defense near the goal line. Defensively, the Rams' persistence was led once again by Ramiyah Words and Chloe Bjorlin, who helped absorb a series of late attacks. In goal, Ramirez capped her afternoon with a commanding sequence of back-to-back saves in the closing minutes, finishing with 16 saves against a staggering 59 total shots faced. The Rams ultimately fell 9-0 at home. 

Looking Ahead:

Up next, women's soccer will host Martin Luther College this Saturday, October 18th, with kickoff set for 1:00 PM at Elliot Park Field.