Box Score

MARSHALL, Minn. – The Southwest Minnesota State soccer team played to a 0-0 draw at home on Sunday in an exhibition match against the College of Saint Benedict at the Schwan Regional Event Center.
 
SMSU freshman goalkeeper, Jessica Craigmile, faced 10 total shots saving all seven attempts on goal from Saint Ben's. Craigmile was also the only player from either team to play all 90 minutes of the friendly, completing the shutout in her first appearance for the Mustangs.
 
Coaches from the two teams divided playing time between three 30 minute periods rather than a traditional format with two 45 minute halves. SMSU head coach, Erin Kasmarik-Mallet, was able to get 18 players at least 30 minutes of action during the scrimmage.
 
Both teams struggled to create scoring opportunities as they battled for possession in the midfield for a majority of the afternoon.  Saint Ben's outshot the Mustangs 10-3 for the game holding SMSU to just one shot in the final 45 minutes of play.
 
After ending the match, the teams took further advantage of the exhibition by conducting a penalty shootout as they prepare for their respective regular season schedules.
 
SMSU will begin its regular season on Thursday at home against Fort Hays State (Kan.) at 11 a.m. followed by another match on Saturday versus Washburn (Kan.) at 2 p.m.