Hays scores golden goal, Simpson advances to A-R-C Semifinals

INDIANOLA, Iowa -- For the first time in 10 seasons, the Simpson College women's soccer team is headed to the American Rivers Conference Semifinals after defeating Central 2-1 in overtime inside Buxton Stadium.

The victory was the Storm's first postseason win since defeating Central 2-0 in the first round of the Iowa Conference Tournament in 2011.

After scoring the equalizer in the 82nd minute via penalty kick, freshman Maddie Hays converted yet another penalty kick in the first overtime period to keep Simpson's postseason run alive. Hays has connected on 5-of-6 penalty kicks in her first campaign with the Storm and has now notched two game-winners.

The two teams were locked in a defensive battle for over three-fourths of regulation before Central finally opened the scoring just before the 71st minute. Abby Frey lifted a corner kick perfectly into the box where Kaitlyn Isom was able to score on a quick header.

Simpson and Central had an equal amount of opportunities with 19 shots a piece but the Dutch owned a slight 10-7 advantage in shots on goal. Cassie Nash had seven shots to lead the Storm, while the Dutch had six players take at least two shots.

Brenny Frederick made nine saves during the contest, tying her career-high set back on Sept. 18.

Up Next
Simpson travels to No. 2-seed Wartburg for the Semifinals on Nov. 3. The Knights (14-2-1, 7-1 A-R-C) were ranked No. 16 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top-25 poll.