RIVER FALLS, Wis. — The UW-River Falls women's soccer team defeated UW-Stout in the team's 2024 WIAC opener, 2-1, on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at Ramer Soccer Stadium.

Freshman midfielder Lilly Leitner's first goal of her collegiate career proved to be the game-winner, as her unassisted shot in the 76th minute made all the difference for the Falcons. UWRF saw a consistent push on the offensive side of the field, holding a 29-18 advantage in shots. The victory improved UWRF's record on the season to 6-3-1.

In the first half, UWRF looked to control the pace and possession early. The Falcons totaled 17 shots in the first 45 minutes, but both teams remained scoreless through the first 30 minutes of play. In the 31st minute, Brooke McDaniel scored from the right side of the 18-yard box. Madyson Shew made a great pass from midfield to Abby Drontle on the right side of the box, who found McDaniel for the goal. The 1-0 lead held through the first 45 minutes of play.

The second half saw numerous shot attempts for both teams, as the Falcons outshot the Blue Devils 12-9. However, in the 61st minute, Carly Kauffman scored a goal off an assist from Kate Holst to equalize the game at 1-1.

With the game up for grabs in the 76th minute, Lilly Leitner had a shot blocked that bounced back her way near the top of the box. Leitner attempted a shot again, this time putting the ball in the top right corner of the net to put UWRF up 2-1. The Falcons held off the Blue Devils for the remainder of the game, walking away with a victory in the team's first WIAC match of the season.

Ellie Ketcher led UWRF with five shots and two shots on goal, while Lexi Atkinson and Madyson Shew each totaled four shots. In goal, Grace Zellmer made nine saves, which ties a season-high set in the 2024 season opener against St. Scholastica.

Today's victory marked the 190th win of head coach Sean McKuras' career at UWRF.

Up next, the Falcons travel to face UW-Platteville on Oct.5. The match is scheduled to kick off at 5 p.m.