Grinnell and Saint Mary’s Battle to a Scoreless Draw
Winona, MN – September 8, 2024 – In a tightly contested match at Ochrymowycz Field, Grinnell College (2-1-1) and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (3-0-1) ended in a scoreless draw. Both teams played strong defensively, keeping the opposing offenses in check throughout the 90 minutes of action. The game saw moments of intensity but ultimately neither team could find the back of the net.
First Half
The game started with back-and-forth action, as both teams looked to establish early control. Saint Mary’s midfielder Lauren Ashe had the first shot of the game, but Grinnell goalkeeper Peyton Dixon made a solid save in the third minute. Grinnell’s Maya Mozena and Campbell Swaim both had attempts blocked by Saint Mary’s defenders, showing the physicality and awareness of both defenses.
In the 22nd minute, Rama Joshi’s shot on goal was saved by Saint Mary’s goalkeeper Anna Peckosh, keeping the game level. Both teams managed to create chances, but neither could break the deadlock in the first half. Grinnell had three shots, while Saint Mary’s registered two, with the teams going into halftime tied 0-0.
Second Half
The second half saw Saint Mary’s ramp up their attacking pressure, with four shots compared to Grinnell’s single attempt. However, Grinnell’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Peyton Dixon making key saves, including a diving stop on a close-range effort by Saint Mary’s forward Anna Warneke in the 69th minute.
Saint Mary’s Brooklyn McKinney also came close to scoring in the 77th minute, but Dixon was once again up to the task. Grinnell’s Ella Hunt had the Pioneers’ best opportunity late in the match with a shot in the 89th minute, but substitute goalkeeper McKenzie Munson made the crucial save to secure the draw for the Cardinals.
Defensive Showcase
Both teams displayed excellent defensive structure throughout the game. Dixon finished with three saves for Grinnell, while Peckosh and Munson combined for two saves for Saint Mary’s. The Pioneers had a slight edge in possession with 53%, but neither side could capitalize on their opportunities.
Saint Mary’s committed 10 fouls, while Grinnell had five, highlighting the physical nature of the game. The match featured few corner kick opportunities, with Saint Mary’s having three and Grinnell two.
Conclusion
Final Score: Grinnell 0, Saint Mary’s 0
Shots: Grinnell 4, Saint Mary’s 6
Saves: Grinnell 3, Saint Mary’s 2
Fouls: Grinnell 5, Saint Mary’s 10
Possession: Grinnell 53%, Saint Mary’s 47%
Attendance: 112
