Aug. 31, 2003

Box Score?|? Photo Gallery

Columbia, Mo. - Sloshing through a rainy Sunday wasn't exactly how the Tigers planned to open their 2003 home season, but taking a win against Northwestern was right on target.

Mizzou defeated the Wildcats 2-0 posting its second consecutive shutout victory on the year. It marks just the second time in program history the Tigers have won their first two games dating back to the 2001 season. It is also the first time Missouri has defeated Northwestern closing the gap on the Wildcat's series lead to 3-1.

Fighting for the win through a torrential downpour, Missouri battled not only the Northwestern squad but the weather and field conditions as well. The grass turf quickly became soaked with rain reducing ball mobility and greatly compromising the player's footwork. Despite the impediments however, the Tigers picked up a well-earned and muddy victory.

Both teams fought through the first half learning to battle the sodden elements. After a slippery start, frustration proved to be a welcome catalyst in the second period as Mizzou finally capitalized on one of its many scoring attempts.

Jennifer Nobis put the Tigers on the board with a well-placed header launched from a cornerkick by Karen Bauer. Although thwarting the game, the thick water proved to be no match for the classic combination.

In convention with their trademark blue-collar ethic, the Tigers refused to let up in the match despite their lead and put in a second goal late in the game. Midfielder Lauren Grice served a ball to forward Kristen Heil who was able to dribble through the Northwestern defensive line. With Heil advancing on the Wildcat box, goalkeeper Whitney Jones rushed an attack and slipped out of range allowing Heil to sink an unhindered goal.

In addition to Missouri forwards making waves in the game, Mizzou goalkeeper Stephanie Krawczyk played an impressive game amidst the soggy elements. The senior earned her first shutout of the year making five saves, including two harrowing blocks late in the game. She made a tremendous kick save going one-on-one against a Northwestern forward and came back to pull down a huge diving save with just 32 seconds left to ensure the Tiger victory.

Missouri looks to continue the action of the 2003 season hosting the Nike Tiger Invitational Friday, Sept. 5 and Sunday, Sept. 7., when it welcomes, Arkansas, Purdue and Arizona to Audrey J. Walton Stadium.