WINONA, Minn. – The Saint Mary's Cardinal women's soccer team hosted one of two MIAC playoff quarterfinals matches on Monday afternoon. Saint Mary's, who were the No. 3 seed, took on the No. 6 seed Gustavus Adolphus in rainy conditions. The Cardinals took down the Gusties in a 3-0 shutout and will move on to play at Carleton on Thursday, November, 7^th at 2 p.m in the semifinals!
 
The Cardinals started the half with a burst of energy. Taking full advantage of their home field, the team nailed three corner kick opportunities within the first five minutes of action. The team was in full control, the team did not allow the Gusties any offensive rhythm.
 
The pressure paid off resulting in a Lauren Ashe goal at the 15^th minute to take the lead. She netted a rebound shot attempt which took a deflection into the back of the net.
 
The Cardinals kept the ball rolling and gave up the Gusties first shot attempt of the game at the 29^th minute. The Cardinals were winning in all cylinders.
 
Anika Chavez dribbled her way through the midfield dishing a pass to Lauryn Skoruppa who found herself open in front of the net nailing the second goal for the Cardinals two goal lead at the 35^th minute.
 
Saint Mary's dominated on the defensive end allowing just one shot in the first half.
 
Malerie Williams took a shot 45 seconds in to open the second half of play and setting the tone early. The Gusties fought back striking the next two shots on goal, both missed just left.
 
The Cardinals felt confident with their two goal lead and packed in the defense, wanting to solidify their win. They did not allow another shot attempt for the last 15 minutes of action.
 
The Cardinals, however, were not finished. Samantha Munson beat her defender on the right side and crossed a pass to Skoruppa who stuck her foot out to tip in the final goal for the Cardinals at the 82^nd mark to finalize the game, 3-0.
 
Anna Peckosh records a shutout win for the team making two saves all night.
 
The Cardinals are back in action on Thursday, November 7^th for a 2 p.m. start time taking on No. 2 Carleton in the MAIC Playoff Semifinals.
 
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