DULUTH, Minn. – The Border Battle Chalice is staying in River Falls. The UW-River Falls women's soccer team rallied from a first-half deficit to defeat St. Scholastica 2-1 Monday afternoon at Kenny Harkins Field, maintaining possession of the Chalice for the fourth consecutive year. Naomi Green supplied the first-half equalizer before Ellie Ketcher scored the game-winner in the 85th minute.
The Falcons controlled much of the action early, generating six corner kicks and four shots within the opening nine minutes. Despite UWRF's early action, St. Scholastica struck first in the 30th minute. Anna Manion found the back of the net off assists from Julia Lewis and Gianna Hansen to give the Saints a 1-0 advantage.
River Falls continued to pursue their opening score and found their answer just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Gabby Kempf set up Green, scoring her first collegiate goal, pulling the Falcons even before heading into the break.
In the second half, UWRF put five shots on goal before eventually breaking through. With just under six minutes remaining, Ketcher delivered the deciding goal, scoring in the 85th minute to put River Falls ahead 2-1. The goal was Ketcher's team-leading second of the season.
The Falcons finished with an 18-11 advantage in shots, an 8-7 edge in shots on goal. UWRF held a commanding 13-2 advantage in corner kicks, keeping them in striking distance often. Ketcher led the Falcons with five shots and two on goal, while Courtney Bain made six saves in net to earn the victory.
With the win, River Falls improves to 4-1-1 on the season and extends its hold on the Border Battle Chalice to four consecutive years. The Falcons return home for their next two matches, beginning against Hamline before hosting Crown College for Senior Day.
