ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA - Wednesday, the North Central University women's soccer team traveled to Reynolds Field for a UMAC matchup against the University of Northwestern. Despite falling 7-0, the Rams continued to demonstrate the determination and resilience that have defined their season. Bella Sorbo delivered another strong performance in goal, recording 15 saves, while North Central continued to compete through the final whistle.
Following the contest, Coach Keith Bleyer emphasized how special this group has been to coach. Despite the challenges reflected in the team's record, Bleyer praised the student-athletes for their commitment, attitude, and willingness to keep fighting regardless of the circumstances. Their refusal to give up continues to be a defining characteristic of this year's team.
FIRST HALF
North Central faced pressure from the opening minutes, with Sorbo making four saves in the first eight minutes to keep the Rams within reach. Northwestern eventually broke through in the 10th minute and added another goal shortly afterward.
Despite the early deficit, the Rams continued to battle defensively. Sorbo recorded several more saves throughout the middle portion of the half, including stops in the 26th, 28th and 30th minutes. NCU's defensive unit, featuring Deshawna Hodges, Joyce Horton, Ramiyah Words, and Chloe Bjorlin, continued working to limit opportunities against a persistent attack.
Northwestern added three goals during the final 11 minutes of the half, sending North Central into the break trailing 5-0. Sorbo finished the opening period with 11 individual saves, while the Rams' defense faced 25 first-half shots.
SECOND HALF
The Rams returned to the field determined to continue competing despite the deficit. Northwestern added goals in the 51st and 59th minutes, but North Central responded by keeping the opposition off the scoreboard for the final 31 minutes.
Sorbo continued making important stops, including saves in the 53rd and 61st minutes. The Rams also found an opportunity offensively in the 79th minute when Ellason Popken recorded NCU's lone shot of the afternoon, sending an attempt wide of the goal.
North Central continued battling through the closing minutes, with Sorbo making another save in the 88th minute before the Rams' defense recorded a team save in the final seconds.
Northwestern finished with a 43-1 advantage in shots, including a 23-0 edge in shots on goal, and held a 6-0 advantage in corner kicks. Despite the statistical disparities, Sorbo played all 90 minutes and recorded 15 individual saves, while NCU was credited with an additional team save.
While the scoreboard did not favor the Rams, the team's determination remained evident. Coach Bleyer's message following the match reinforced that this group is about more than wins and losses. Through the challenges of the season, the Rams have continued to show up, compete for one another, and refuse to quit.
UP NEXT
North Central women's soccer will look to carry that same determination into its remaining UMAC contests as the Rams continue their 2026 campaign.
As always, fans are encouraged to follow the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X) pages for updates on women's soccer and all things NCU Athletics.
