MITCHELL, S.D. — Northwestern battled back in the second half but couldn't complete the comeback, falling 2-1 to Dakota Wesleyan on Wednesday.
The Tigers controlled much of the first half and grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 24th minute when Noélie Prat found the back of the net. Dakota Wesleyan added another goal in the 31st minute, with Arlette Montañez scoring off a Molly Colgrove assist to make it 2-0.
Ella Top kept the Raiders within striking distance throughout the opening half, making several saves as DWU continued to pressure. Maddie Overton also came up with a defensive save late in the half to help keep the deficit at two. Northwestern had a chance to get on the board before halftime, but DWU goalkeeper Danika Hoth stopped Maddie Overton's shot in the final minute.
The Raiders came out with a different energy after halftime. Following a DWU red card in the 51st minute, Grace Timm quickly took advantage, scoring just under three minutes later to cut the Tigers' lead to 2-1.
Northwestern continued to push for the equalizer, but DWU created several chances of its own as the match became increasingly physical. Top made two important saves in the final 10 minutes, while Overton came up with another defensive save in the 84th minute to keep the Raiders within one.
Northwestern couldn't find the equalizer in the closing minutes, and Dakota Wesleyan held on for the 2-1 victory.
UP NEXT: The Raiders will look to bounce back Saturday, Sept. 26, when they travel to Yankton, S.D., to take on Mount Marty at 5 p.m.
Follow Northwestern College Athletics on Facebook @nwcraiders, Twitter @nwcraiders, and Instagram @nwcraiders.
#RaidersStandOut
