Thanks to Angelina Azzo for the pictures

CHICAGO, Ill. – The North Park women's soccer team opened its 2022 season at home with a shutout win over Benedictine University on Thursday night, grabbing a 2-0 win.

Through the first half, the Vikings controlled much of the pace by out-shooting the Eagles 7-4. However, neither team found the back of the net in a scoreless first half.

Megan Tauscheck changed that in the 54^th minute when she maneuvered the Benedictine defense, faked a shot, and slotted the ball past the keeper into the bottom-right of the goal for the first NPU goal of the season.

Linn Gradin added a goal in the 76^th minute off a breakaway assist from Ida Elise Hjelle, putting the Vikings up by the eventual final score of 2-0.

North Park came alive late, firing 13 shots while holding its opponent to just four in the second half of play. 

In front of a quality turnout for the Viking faithful, North Park prevailed with a 2-0 shutout win.

Quick Hits:

• First career goals for Megan Tauscheck (54^') and Linn Gradin (76^')
• Vikings outpace Eagles with 20-8 shots advantage (8-4 on goal)
• Clean sheet for Campbelle Hunt

What's Next?
North Park (1-0) will face another Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference member in Aurora University this coming Sunday, September 4. Kickoff at Aurora is set for 11:00 AM.