LAMONI, Iowa — The Graceland University women's soccer team earned a 2–1 victory over Northwestern College on Friday evening at the Rasmussen Sports Complex, securing its second win of the season in a well-balanced nonconference matchup.

With the result, Graceland improves to 2-1-1 overall, while Northwestern falls to 2-2 on the season and 0-1 in conference play.

After a scoreless first half, the match came to life in the final 30 minutes. Sierra Flores broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, scoring an unassisted goal to put the Yellowjackets ahead 1–0. Northwestern answered in the 79th minute with an equalizer by Marissa Talamantes, assisted by Aliza Edwards. However, Graceland reclaimed the lead with just over one minute remaining, as Tessa Cook finished a decisive goal in the 89th minute off a well-placed assist from Nuria Garcia.

Graceland recorded a 13–7 advantage in total shots, including 9 on target, and held the Raiders to just three shots on goal. The Yellowjackets also earned seven corner kicks, compared to none for Northwestern, and held a 3–2 edge in saves.

Goalkeeper Alexis Porter, who played the full 90 minutes, tallied two saves and earned the win, improving her record to 2-1-1 on the season. The backline, led by Mackenzie Ralston, Veronica Baehr, and Mackenzie Melrose, limited Northwestern's chances in the final third and cleared multiple attacking efforts late.

Graceland generated early pressure with attempts from Chloe Montera, Nuria Garcia, and Caitlin Lageman in the opening half. Garcia struck the post in the 15th minute, and Lageman forced a save from Northwestern goalkeeper Bailey Bynum in the 25th. The Yellowjackets nearly found the net before halftime but went into the break scoreless.

"We're proud of the way our group stayed composed under pressure," said head coach Randall Porter. "Today was a great team effort by everyone involved. It's nice to have a clean sheet at half as we head into our conference season. The team battled hard and found a way to win. We now turn our attention to our rigorous conference schedule, which will bring intense physical, technical, and tactical battles in the weeks to come."

Flores led Graceland with two shots on goal, while Lageman, Cook, and Garcia added multiple attempts. Wissal Rafik and Montera helped stretch the field and create space, particularly on the flanks. Graceland maintained pressure through possession and forced Northwestern to defend deep for extended stretches in both halves.

The match remained physical but controlled, with only five fouls called across 90 minutes and no cards issued. Graceland used a deep bench, with Elisa Lopez, Emma Eltiste, Kylie Overkamp, and Angelika Laginova contributing minutes in key midfield and defensive roles.

With one more nonconference contest remaining before HAAC play, the Yellowjackets will aim to build momentum heading into league competition.

Graceland returns to the pitch Saturday, September 6, at 7 p.m. for a nonconference home match against Hannibal-LaGrange. The match will be held at the Rasmussen Sports Complex in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland women's soccer and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.