BEMIDJI, Minn. - The University of Minnesota Crookston soccer team fell 2-0 to Bemidji State University Friday, October 17 at Chet Anderson Stadium. The Golden Eagles kept the game knotted up for nearly 42 minutes, but Bemidji State was able to score a late first half goal, and one in the second frame to earn the 2-0 victory.

The Golden Eagles dropped to 1-9-2 (0-8-1 NSIC) with the loss. Bemidji State improved to 7-2-3 (5-1-3 NSIC) with Friday night's win. The game was the closest for the Golden Eagles against the Beavers since a 2-0 loss October 27, 2022 in Crookston. It is the closest road loss against Bemidji State since a 2-1 loss September 3, 2015.

The Beavers tallied 14 shots, with eight on goal. Minnesota Crookston finished with two shots, none on frame. Bemidji State had seven corner kicks to zero for the Golden Eagles. Sarah Burgum (Sr., F, Mandan, N.D.) had both shots for Minnesota Crookston. Katrina Barthelt lifted the Beavers with four shots, three on goal.

Minnesota Crookston's first chance came from Burgum in the 13th minute, but it went over the goal. Burgum had another opportunity in the 19th minute, but it veered wide right. Bemidji State took the 1-0 lead after a scoreless first 41 minutes. Tessa Czajkowski Higgins scored the goal off a Marielle Wright helper.

The game remained 1-0 until a Barthelt goal in the 71st minute, her eighth of the season. Bemidji State held on to win 2-0.

Jordan Metz (So., GK, Lino Lakes, Minn.) started in goal, allowing two Beaver goals with six saves. Sofia Alfieri earned the win in net for Bemidji State, with a clean sheet and zero saves. 

The Golden Eagles return home to host the University of Minnesota Duluth Sunday, October 19 at 1 p.m., at the Minnesota Crookston Soccer Field.