KENOSHA, WI., -- The Vikings were back in action Wednesday evening after their 0-0 stalemate with Augustana College this past weekend, taking on a Carthage Firebirds team that was looking to defend their undefeated home record coming into the game.
Time of possession in the first half was virtually even between the two teams, however it was North Park (3-6-2) who struck first in the first two minutes of play when Caroline Sjøstedt sent in a cross that took an advantageous bounce resulting in the first goal of the match, giving the Vikings the early 1-0 lead. Not too long after in the 9th minute, Sjøstedt sent one through off a beautiful deep pass from Maja Applequist that allowed Sjøstedt to make a quick move on a defender for an easy lefty shot for the 2-0 advantage. Applequist was not credited with an assist as the pass grazed a defender, but it was on the money nonetheless. Sjøstedt continued to be the offensive catalyst in the first half, as she too set up her teammate Selma Rydberg for a great look at the net to put the Vikings ahead 3-0 in the 41st minute just before half.
North Park shifted its focus to game management and their defense over the final 45 minutes, successfully closing out its first conference road victory without allowing a goal. However, the Vikings were tested by an aggressive Firebirds team who would not go away quietly, earning corner kicks in the 50th and 53rd minutes and generated several attacking opportunities throughout the second half. Vikings keeper Makenna Harvey had a strong performance with 9 saves on Carthage's 14 total shot attempts, while the offense still had their fair share of chances to add to their total. Sofia Svensson kept the pressure on Firebirds keeper Tatiana Valdez with two shots on goal in the 47th and 68th, leading the Vikings with four shots and three on goal by the end.
What's Next?
The Vikings now move to 4-6-2 with a 1-1-1 record in CCIW play. Their next game will be on Saturday, October 10th at 1pm when they kick off the North Park Soccer double header against Illinois Wesleyan with the men's team playing at 4pm.
Top Performers
Caroline Sjøstedt - 1 shot, 1 goal, 1 assist
Selma Rydberg - 1 shot, 1 goal
Sofia Svensson - 4 shots, 3 on goal
Makenna Harvey - 9 saves
