The University of Minnesota women’s soccer team stretched its season-long winning streak to 10 games with a 1-0 victory over Boston University on Sunday afternoon at Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium in St. Paul. A goal from freshman Shari Eckstrom in the 45th minute was all Minnesota needed to capture the Minnesota Gold Classic tournament title.
The win for the Gophers gives the team a perfect 10-0-0 record in non-conference play. Minnesota will play Michigan State and Michigan next weekend as the team enters conference play.
Lindsey Dare made three saves to record her eighth shutout in 10 games this season. Dare was helped to her shutout by solid play from the Minnesota midfield and defensive core. Kelsey Hood led the charge for the Gophers on the defensive end, garnering Minnesota Gold Classic Defensive MVP honors.
Hood, a two-time second team All-Big Ten selectee, was instrumental to Minnesota’s tournament victory as the Gophers allowed just five shots against the Terriers this afternoon.
“I think it was a big step for our team to shut out and beat two opponents that are getting attention in the national polls. Our mindset continues to be to seek out ways to improve so that we can become the best team we can possibly be,” Minnesota head coach Mikki Denney Wright said. “Our coaching staff knows what it takes to be successful in the Big Ten, and we know we still have work to do.”
Wisconsin-Milwaukee, who tied Brown 2-2 to begin play on Sunday, finished second in the weekend event. UWM forward Kate Megna was named Minnesota Gold Classic Offensive MVP after scoring two goals on the weekend.
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Minnesota Gold Classic All-Tournament teamJanie Reilly (GK), Boston University
Lina Cords (D), Boston University
Brenna Hogue (GK), Brown
Lindsay Cunningham (F), Brown
Sarah Teegarden (M), UW-Milwaukee
Mary Wandolowski (F), UW-Milwaukee
Sarah Hagan (F), UW-Milwaukee
Kaitlin Wagner (M), Minnesota
Kylie Kallman (D), Minnesota
Lindsey Schwartz (F), Minnesota
Julie Rezac (M), Minnesota
Offensive MVP Kate Magna (F), UW-Milwaukee
Defensive MVP Kelsey Hood (M), Minnesota
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The Gophers begin Big Ten Conference play with a match at Michigan State on Friday afternoon at 4:00 in East Lansing.
