Bruin women fall in North Star Final to top-seeded Viterbo

JAMESTOWN, N.D. -- Viterbo scored twice in the first 16 minutes and withstood consistent pressure from the Bellevue University women's soccer team as the V-Hawks claimed their first-ever North Star Athletic Association Championship on Sunday.

Viterbo drew first blood with a set piece goal in the 11^th minute, Courtney Morgan stepped to take the kick at the near side corner of the penalty box and delivered a shot into the far side upper 90 out of the reach of BU sophomore keeper Laurence Rodier.

The V-Hawks doubled their lead in the 16^th minute with a breakaway strike by Molly Machometa. From there Bellevue stepped up their play considerably and had the better of play for the remainder of the half. The improved play culminated in senior Betsy Fischenich's fourth goal in the tournament and 15^th of the season.

Bellevue looked like they would pull level early in the second half. Senior Kate Petersen took a free kick from about 35 yards out but her attempt hit off the outside of the post and Viterbo clung to their lead. Bellevue was dangerous throughout the remainder of the half but their shots on target were stopped and the furious Bruin rally fell short.

The Bruins were appearing in a conference championship game for the 11^th consecutive season, having claimed seven during that time.

The Bruins fall to 12-4-0 with the loss while Viterbo improves to 12-7-0 with the win. The V-Hawks secure the North Star's automatic bid to the NAIA Women's Soccer National Tournament with the victory.

Bellevue will await the announcement of at-large bids which will be handed out Monday, Nov. 16 to see if they are selected for the NAIA Tournament.