The Grand Valley State women's soccer team faced Minnesota State in a closely contested Elite Eight match on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The game ended in a 1-1 draw but concluded with the Lakers falling short in penalty kicks, losing 5-4. This result marked the end of their season with an overall record of 15 wins, one loss, and eight draws.
Throughout the match, Grand Valley State had a slight edge in shots over Minnesota State, with totals of 26 to 25 and shots on goal tallying at 11 to seven. However, Minnesota State held the advantage in corner kicks with five compared to two for the Lakers.
The scoring began late in the first half when Sarah Fromm netted her fifth goal of the season for GVSU in the 40th minute. The play developed from a free kick by Mackenzie Ford to Kendall Aikens who then set up Fromm's left-footed finish past the goalkeeper.
In the second half, GVSU attempted three shots within three minutes; two were saved by Minnesota State's goalkeeper while one narrowly missed wide left. Goalkeeper Cailynn Junk kept GVSU ahead temporarily with a diving save in the 53rd minute.
Minnesota State managed to equalize late into regulation time with a shot from outside the box during the 82nd minute. Despite efforts from Ryann Fetty and others to regain their lead, GVSU was unable to score again before overtime ensued.
During overtime periods, GVSU dominated possession initially but could not capitalize on their six-to-zero shot advantage against Minnesota State in the first period. The second overtime saw Minnesota outshooting them three-to-two before eventually securing victory through penalty kicks.
Cailynn Junk recorded six saves for GVSU during regular playtime. Alli French led her team offensively by taking six shots including three on target; Emma Chudik contributed five attempts with two reaching goalkeepers' hands; Sarah Fromm’s single goal came from three tries while Kennedy Bearden added another trio attempt resulting once towards goals' direction.
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