CHICAGO, Ill. -- The North Park Women's Soccer team scored three times Tuesday against a U-Chicago team that was ranked sixth in DIII Soccer just two weeks ago but fell at Stagg Field, 6-3.
The Vikings were first to score in the 10th minute when a set play by senior midfielder Abigail Balmesada junior forward Sofie Swedberg led to a free kick goal for sophomore midfielder Maja Applequist at 9:30. Balmaseda lined up for the free shot from 30 yards out before Swedberg tapped it over to Applequist, who found the left side of the net for the first score of the contest.
However, the Maroons responded about as quick as a team could. Seconds later, Chicago fired three consecutive shots before the third one off the foot of Mary Stuart Kerrigan broke through for a goal 10 minutes into the contest.
U-Chicago would extend its lead with three unanswered goals before the Vikings would get a tally of their own. Now in the 63rd minute, a corner kick by junior midfielder Stine Lie glanced off the knee of Applequist before Swedberg finished the job with her fourth goal of the season.
The Maroons scored two more goals, putting the game out of reach at 6-2 with three minutes to go. However, with seconds remaining, sophomore forward Caroline Sjøstedt would send in the final goal of the game as North Park fell, 6-3.
What's Next?
North Park (3-4-0) opens CCIW play at home this Saturday, September 28, for a match with Augustana. Kickoff at Holmgren is set for 3:00 PM CT.
