Stump penalty kick powers women's soccer to first win

INDIANOLA, Iowa - Mackenzie Stump connected on a penalty kick in the first half and the Simpson women's soccer team held on to beat Westminster (Mo.) 1-0 on Friday afternoon at Indianola Middle School.

Stump was awarded the penalty kick after a Westminster hand ball in the penalty box in the 21st minute. The sophomore went to her left for the game's lone goal.

"This is a huge confidence booster for the team and hopefully we can build on this," head coach Ryan Sander said after Simpson's first win of the season.

Simpson controlled play for most of the game, including a second-half that saw the Storm (1-7) outshoot Westminster 7-1.

Despite the glaring shot discrepancy, Sander would like to see more shots on frame.

"We have to be more composed in the attacking third," Sander said. "Since we haven't scored a lot of goals this season, we get a little antsy trying to release that pressure. We need to connect better and learn to give up good shots for better shots."

Kristin Riley made one save to record the shutuout, which didn't come easy for the defense. The back line had to tighten in the closing minutes as the Blue Jays (3-3) went on the attack.

"We haven't played with the lead much this year, so it's a learning process," Sander said. "Either way we got the win, and in the end and that's all that matters."

Simpson returns to action Sunday, Sept. 21 when it hosts Waldorf at Buxton Stadium. Start time is set for 3 p.m.