FOREST CITY, Iowa – Despite falling behind in the opening minute of play, the Missouri Baptist women's soccer team pulled through with two unanswered goals to defeat Waldorf University on the road, 2-1.
 
MBU opens its season 2-0 for the first time since 2017, while the Warriors continue to search for their first win at 0-2-1.
 
Waldorf gained the upper hand right out of the gate, profiting from a direct ball over the top and an uncharacteristic, misplayed ball by a Spartan defender. WU freshman Mila Maciel finished the play off and put the Warriors ahead, 1-0.
 
They remained in control for a chunk of the first half and survived a pair of MBU shots on goal. But, with less than 10 minutes remaining in the half, the Spartans' top returning scorer from 2021 – Gianna Gore – scored the equalizer. The senior forward received a well-placed cross from Simone Simas, eluded a defender, and snuck it past Waldorf keeper Katelyn Brandt.
 
With momentum on its side and deep in the Waldorf territory just four minutes in, MoBap was in the right place at the right time. Defender Piper Brown intercepted a WU clear, let it rip from 30 yards out, and had enough juice on the shot to trickle past the keeper for Missouri Baptist's go-ahead goal.
 
The Spartans recorded five more shots on target in the period but could not muster any insurance goals. However, senior goalkeeper Hanna Harrison and MBU's backline held their ground, limiting the Warriors to just two shots in the second half. Harrison finished with two saves on the day.
 
Missouri Baptist Women's Soccer will look to make it three wins in a row on Tuesday when they travel to Springfield, Mo., for a non-conference tilt with Evangel University.