Simpson beats Carleton thanks to Wagoner’s late header

INDIANOLA, Iowa – Some lockdown defense and a Julia Wagoner header in the 72nd minute helped the Simpson College women's soccer team a 1-0 win over the reigning Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Champions, Carleton.

The game-winning header by Wagoner was on the Storm's eighth corner kick of the night and fourth in a matter of just minutes. After coming close but empty on the first three attempts, Cassie Nash delivered the kick from the far side of the field to the middle of the box where Wagoner jumped up and headed it home for the 1-0 lead.

The Storm (3-0) outshot the Knights (2-1) 20-13 and had tremendous defensive efforts from Maddie Hays, Avery Plathe, Elle Street and Lani Mears who played all 90 minutes. Mears made four saves on the night to log her second shutout.

NOTES

• Wagoner's goal was the first allowed by the Knights this season. Carleton had outscored its opponents 7-0 coming into the game.
• Carleton suffers its first regular season loss in 366 days.
• Simpson opens the season 3-0 for the first time since 2011.
• Nash has either scored or assisted on all six goals tallied by the Storm this season.
• With the win, Simpson levels the head-to-head series with Carleton at three wins apiece.

UP NEXT
Simpson's nonconference schedule continues with four road games in a matter of eight days. The Storm will take on Carroll (Wis.) and Milwaukee School of Engineering on Sunday and Monday, respectively followed by trips to Grinnell and Westminster.