MORRIS, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Morris Women's Soccer team fell 5-0 to St. Mary's University in its 2025 season opener on Friday evening in Morris, Minn.
 
The Cardinals improve to 1-0, while the Cougars start the season at 0-1.
 
"Overall, I think we saw spells of some really good soccer that excites us for the season ahead," said head coach Emma Morris. "Obviously, it's never fun to lose 5-0, but the fight we showed even after losing players to injury and going down a couple of goals exemplifies the camaraderie this group has, and there are many more positives to take away. If we can be more consistent with our style of play and calm down a little bit more on the ball, we'll see lots of success this fall. It has to be said that the opposition were one of the toughest we'll face all season, and they played a good game today, so credit to them and we wish them best for their season ahead also."
 
Minnesota Morris created a strong opportunity early in the match. Johnette Nagbe drove toward goal and was taken down just outside the box. Bella Toth took the ensuing free kick and rifled a shot toward the net, but the Cardinal goalkeeper made the save. Shortly after, St. Mary's scored the opening goal and added another 20 minutes in. Cougar goalkeeper CJ Frear-Boerner and the defense held SMU to two goals heading into halftime.
 
In the second half, it wasn't until the latter stages that UMM registered another shot, with Toth again landing one on target. The Cougars were unable to break through offensively and ultimately dropped the contest 5-0.
 
Toth recorded both of Minnesota Morris' shots on goal. Brianna Ganske also had a shot, though it was off target. Defenders Sarah Kumher and Caitlin Lau anchored the back line, playing the full 90 minutes. Frear-Boerner finished with nine saves, while Olivia Drath made her goalkeeping debut, playing the final nine minutes.
 
The Cougars return to action on Monday, Sept. 1, when they host Concordia College (Minn.) at 5 p.m. at Cougar Field.