The Winona State University women’s soccer team started their season with two home games. The first was against Michigan Technological University on Friday, Sept. 1, and the second was against Northern Michigan University on Sunday, Sept. 3.

The Warriors fell 1-0 to Michigan Tech in their first home match of the year at Altra Federal Credit Union Stadium.

Junior Abby Bohanski had a chance to score with a shot in the middle of the box, but it fell into the hands of the opposing goalie.

Michigan Tech Huskies player Sarah Boyd scored the only goal of the night in the 46th minute, on a shot inside the left post.

The Warriors edged the Huskies in total shots, 17-16, and had more quality shots on goal leading in that category 14- 9. However, they were still not able to get ahead.

“We did everything right to create the chances to score, but just couldn’t find the back of the net,” Head Coach Dustin Beckman said, “I think the loss will serve as a catalyst for our girls heading into Sunday’s game. By cleaning up a little more on the technical side, we will start seeing more positive results.”

In Sunday’s game against the Northern Michigan University Wildcats, junior Dairan Molter had three shots, the most on goal for the Warriors this game.

Molter came alive Sunday by netting two goals as the Warriors took down the Wildcats 4-1.

“Molter is a grinder, she will work for those opportunities every game,” Assistant Coach Autumn Hayes said. “The team wanted to put some away after missing so many chances Friday.”

Winona State took a 1-0 lead into halftime. Right out of the gate, Molter headed a loose ball in front of the keeper to expand their lead to 2-0.

But the Wildcats answered and cut the deficit to 2-1 at the 52-minute mark.

It was the last of the Wildcat goals in the game, but the Warriors went on to score two unanswered goals to end the match. One of these included an unassisted goal by Molter for her second goal of the night.

Winona had a total of 10 shots on goal and four saves by senior goalie Rachel Oleson.

“Everyone really worked together this game to put some goals behind the net,” Hayes said. “The team felt disappointed with all missed chances Friday, so we really needed this game to get ourselves set for the season.”

Winona State women’s Soccer will next play on Sept. 7 at home versus Upper Iowa University. The game will start at 7 p.m.