Natchitoches, La. – Havana Johnson's goal with eight minutes to play in the second half broke a 1-1 tie to lift McNeese to a 2-1 win over Northwestern State in a battle of unbeatens in Southland Conference soccer action on Sunday.
The third goal of the season for Johnson, who was assisted by Carissa Adams, improved the Cowgirls to 7-3 overall and 3-0 in league play and extended their winning streak to five straight games. NSU (5-6, 2-1 SLC) saw it's five-game winning streak snapped while dropping its fourth straight match to the Cowgirls in the series.
After both teams battled to a scoreless first half, McNeese's Brianna Mascia put her team on the board first early in the second half on her goal that was set up by some nice dribbling work by Alexis Rodriguez who sent a cross pass to Mascia who sent the ball into the net. It was Mascia's second goal in as many games.
NSU responded later in the half with a set piece equalizer from Natalee Henry on a free kick that was set just outside the box. And despite a great effort by McNeese goalkeeper Emma Roccaforte, who put a hand on the ball, the ball bounced off the crossbar and then into the back of the net to tie the game 1-1.
The Pokes continued their strong attack and would find their answer eight minutes later with Johnson's game-winner.
The Cowgirls finished with 11 shots to Northwestern's seven while Roccaforte recorded two saves. Five McNeese shots were put on frame and only three were put on goal for the Lady Demons.
McNeese (7-3) will continue conference play against Sam Houston St. (4-5) on Friday at Cowgirl Field.
MATCH NOTES:
• It was Mascia's second goal of the season and also the second in her McNeese career.
• Both Carissa Adams and Alexis Rodriguez recorded their first assist of the season.
• McNeese has now won their last five matches and are undefeated in the SLC.
QUOTING HEAD COACH DREW FITZGERALD:
"We knew today was going to be a physical battle and the game did not disappoint. Both teams gave a ton of energy and really fought for 90 minutes. Just proud of our group for finding a way to come out on top."
