Morris, MN – The North Central University (NCU) women's soccer team headed to Morris, MN, for another conference contest against the University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) Cougars. The Rams are coming off a home thriller versus Crown that ended in a tie on Wednesday. Last season, NCU played Morris to two competitive outings but was unable to claim a victory. Today, the Rams battled both the weather and a short-handed lineup due to injuries. NCU showed tremendous effort and heart throughout the match, led by junior forward Paula Capili, who scored her second goal of the season, and senior goalkeeper Erma Ramirez, who tied her career high with 19 saves. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, North Central would suffer the 5-1 road loss.

The Rams started the match under tough conditions, facing a stiff wind that made long passes and clearances difficult to control. Early on, NCU's back line, anchored by Ramiyah Words, Joyce Horton, and Ellison Powell, held firm against heavy pressure from the home side. Erma Ramirez was immediately tested, coming up with several point-blank saves to keep the game within reach. Despite conceding two goals late in the half, North Central's defensive organization was commendable, especially considering the team was playing two to three players down for much of the contest due to injuries. Midfielders Anna Deichert and Abbey Korpi battled to slow the opponent's attack, while Paula Capili and Olivia Beach worked tirelessly up top to create counter chances. Beach recorded the team's lone shot on goal in the first period, forcing a save before halftime. NCU trailed 2-0 at the break. 

In the second half, the Rams showed renewed energy and found more opportunities in the attacking third. Capili capitalized in the 62nd minute, converting on a well-placed left-footed strike that slipped past the keeper to get NCU on the board. From there, Beach added two more shots on target as the Rams pushed forward despite the heat and fatigue. Defensively, Ramirez continued her standout performance between the posts, making diving saves, stopping a penalty kick, and keeping the scoreline from widening further. She finished with 19 saves, tying her career best, in a performance that showcased remarkable endurance and composure. Despite conceding five goals overall, the Rams' defensive effort was valiant, especially given the depleted roster and sustained pressure from an opponent that finished with 45 shots to NCU's 8 and an 8-3 advantage in corner kicks. The Cougars handed the Rams a 5-1 loss in Morris. 

Looking Ahead:

Up next, women's soccer will play the University of Northwestern St. Paul on Tuesday, October 7th, with kickoff set for 7:00 PM under the lights at Reynolds Field.

As always, 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.