NORFOLK, NE – The Northeast Community College women’s soccer team won their first game in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region XI playoffs after defeating Hawkeye Community College here yesterday. Final score was 2-1.

The Hawks started strong, with Hailey Curry scoring 24 minutes into the first half on an assist from Katie Martindale. Score at halftime was 1-0.

Approximately nine minutes into the second half, Hawkeye was able to counter one of Northeast’s attacks and scored a goal to tie the game. Three minutes later, Northeast’s Erika Kumm crossed a ball in front of the goal, and Tayler Ohu kicked it in for the game-winning point.

“That goal was a big boost for us,” said Chad Miller, Northeast coach. “We had some good chances in the second half, but that one goal was what we needed. I am excited for these girls getting this win. They played a confident game.”

Northeast tallied 12 shots and seven shots on goal, while Hawkeye finished with ten shots and seven shots on goal. Alexis Wemhoff had six saves for Northeast.

Fourth-ranked Northeast (12-5-1 overall, 6-3 in conference) advances to play #1 Iowa Western Community College (10-5 overall, 8-0 in conference) on Wednesday in Council Bluffs, IA, at 2 p.m.