WINONA, Minn. - The Saint Mary's women's soccer team (2-0) couldn't have asked for a better home opener. With ideal weather and the honor of being the first to play on the brand-new turf, they secured a 2-1 victory over UW-Platteville (1-1), their first win against the Pioneers since 1996.

Samantha Munson was everywhere tonight with a perfectly placed penalty kick for one goal and assisted on the other. Lauryn Skoruppa also found the back of the net for the first goal, from two shots, both on target. 

Goalkeeper Anna Peckosh played such a crucial defensive role, making five saves on ten shots faced, allowing only one goal.

Saint Mary's took the early lead with a goal by Skoruppa, assisted by Munson, in the fifth minute of the first half after she used her speed on the break away . 

The Cardinals maintained pressure with several corner kicks and shots on goal, though credit to Platteville's goalkeeper, Sophia Vriesema, who made key saves, including one against another attempt from Skoruppa in the 15th minute. The Pioneers had a few opportunities, notably with a shot in the 36th minute, but Peckosh was effective in goal, ensuring her team led 1-0 at the end of the half.

The second half began with the Pioneers taking an early shot, which went out right in the 45th minute. The Pioneers maintained offensive pressure, earning three corner kicks by the 52nd minute, and scoring a goal in the 53rd minute to level the score at 1-1. 

The Cardinals responded with increased offensive attempts, resulting in a penalty kick goal by Munson in the 69th minute, giving them a 2-1 lead. 

Both teams continued to exchange shots, with the Cardinals defense holding firm to secure the victory as the half concluded. 

It was the perfect momentum going into a busy upcoming weekend! 

The Cardinals are back in action this Friday at the Oak, hosting Grinnell College for a 4:00 p.m. match up.