SUPERIOR, WISCONSIN – Tuesday, the Rams women's soccer team traveled to SCCU Stadium for a UMAC matchup against the University of Wisconsin-Superior Yellowjackets. Coming off an impressive 1-1 draw against Martin Luther College, the Rams faced another difficult challenge against the conference-leading Yellowjackets. Despite falling 7-0, North Central continued to compete throughout the afternoon, highlighted by another strong performance from goalkeeper Bella Sorbo, who recorded 13 saves across the full 90 minutes.
FIRST HALF
North Central faced early pressure from the conference leaders, conceding a penalty kick goal in the fifth minute. Sorbo responded with her first save of the afternoon in the 16th minute as the Rams worked to settle into the contest.
UW-Superior extended its advantage in the 18th minute before adding goals in the 25th and 32nd minutes. Despite the deficit, Sorbo continued battling between the posts, making consecutive saves in the 28th and 31st minutes.
The Rams' defensive unit, featuring Deshawna Hodges, Joyce Horton, Ramiyah Words, Chloe Bjorlin, and Ellason Popken, faced consistent pressure throughout the opening period. Sorbo added three more saves during the final seven minutes of the half, but the Yellowjackets extended their lead to 6-0 before the break.
North Central entered halftime trailing by six, with Sorbo recording six saves against 17 first-half shots.
SECOND HALF
The Rams returned to the field determined to put together a stronger defensive performance in the second half. Sorbo made an early save in the 48th minute before adding another in the 58th, helping NCU limit the Yellowjackets' opportunities.
UW-Superior found the back of the net once more in the 62nd minute, but North Central responded by holding its opponent scoreless for the remaining 28 minutes.
Sorbo continued to lead the defensive effort, recording saves in the 67th, 72nd, 76th, 78th and 80th minutes. The Rams remained organized enough to prevent any further scoring despite facing sustained pressure throughout the closing stages.
UP NEXT
North Central women's soccer will look to regroup as they host Bethany Lutheran on Saturday, October 24th. That game will begin at 7:30 PM.
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.
