Winona State University women’s soccer team went up against the defending NSIC champions, Bemidji State University on Thursday, Sept. 5.

The team would come up short in a 1-2 loss, but feel good about it despite the end result.

Head coach Matt Kellogg went as far to say that he is happy with how the team played.

“Overall, I was pleased with how our team played,” Kellogg said. “We were able to create a lot of opportunities with a very young attacking group. Our defense in the run of play was very composed and contained a very dangerous Bemidji State attack.”

He continued to say there are places on both units where he thinks the team can improve.

This includes being more composed around the goal area.

“The area that we are looking to grow the most in is our set pieces, both attacking and defending,” Kellogg said. “Set pieces are always a great source of scoring chances and we just need to manage those situations better.”

First-year midfielder, Jaida Wiege said she thinks they will be a dangerous team when they play again at the end of September.

During the game, close to the 48-minute mark, junior midfielder Camryn Cadiz scored the first and only Winona State goal.

The Warriors did lead the game in the number of shots on goal.

The game also marked Wiege’s first time starting at midfield with Winona State.

“I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect and I wanted to really prove myself despite my age and experience at the collegiate level, but I was also very excited because I finally got to put all my hard work from preseason and use it in the game,” Weige said.

Weige was able to get a shot during her time in the field.

She said the girls on the team helped her to feel more confident.

“I also felt more comfortable and confident on the field due to playing with such a great group of girls that are as committed to the game as I am,” Weige said.

The team will look to rebound on Friday, Sept. 13, when they travel to Marquette, Michigan to take on Northern Michigan University.