ROLLA, Mo. — Missouri S&T women's soccer made history Saturday, hosting a Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament quarterfinal for the first time in program history, and made the most of the opportunity with a 3-1 comeback victory over Rockhurst.
The Miners (11-4-2, 9-3-2 GLVC) overcame a one-goal halftime deficit, scoring three times in the second half to secure their place in the GLVC semifinals.
Rockhurst (9-6-3, 7-5-2 GLVC) opened the scoring in the 22nd minute when Maggie Leahy found the back of the net to give the Hawks a 1-0 advantage. Missouri S&T had opportunities to respond before halftime but entered the break trailing by one.
The Miners wasted little time getting even after the intermission.
Jenna Marti (Sammamish, WA/Eastside Catholic) connected with
Adriana Benassi (Lee's Summit, MO/Lee's Summit) in the 48th minute, finishing the assist to tie the match at 1-1.
Benassi gave Missouri S&T its first lead of the afternoon in the 52nd minute, scoring an unassisted goal to put the Miners ahead 2-1.
Just four minutes later, Benassi struck again. Marti and
Haylee Prime (Lewis Center, OH/Olentangy Orange) assisted on the goal in the 56th minute, completing the second-half surge and extending the Miners' advantage to 3-1.
Benassi finished with two goals and an assist, while Marti recorded a goal and an assist.
Catie Riddle (Westland, MI/Churchill) anchored the defensive effort in goal, making eight saves across the match to help preserve the Miners' lead.
Missouri S&T finished with 12 shots, including five on goal, matching Rockhurst's 12 shots. The Miners also earned five corner kicks.
"Great win," starts Head Coach
Matthew Perry. "Great response after a poor first half. We spoke about coming out the first ten minutes and hitting them hard, and we did that. So proud! Another week to be together and train, so we are pleased!"
What's Next
Missouri S&T advances to the GLVC Tournament semifinals, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5, at the Cooper Sports Complex in Springfield, Missouri. The Miners' opponent and match time will be announced following the conclusion of the remaining quarterfinal matches.
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