Krista Tschetter

The Jackrabbit kickers perch at an 8-2 overall record after winning their North Central Conference opener against Minnesota State/Mankato at Bob Sheldon Field, 2-1.

The Sept. 27 match-up dropped Mankato to an overall 7-3 record in the standings.

The Jacks started scoring less than two minutes into the first half with a goal by senior Jennifer Briggs.

She was assisted by Janine Fagin, a senior hailing from Newcastle, England.

“That was a huge game,” Briggs said. “I’m from Minnesota so I had a lot of friends on that team.”

“I think they underestimated us.”

The Mavericks tied up the score 15:51 into the game with a goal by Danni Klinsing assisted by Amber Dusosky.

A second half goal by junior Melissa Speiser, her first of the season, pulled the Jacks ahead.

“We were glad Mel got to score,” Briggs said. “It was good to get her on the board– it was a good game all around.”

The Mavericks out-shot the Jacks 25-13, but junior Jackrabbit goalkeeper Brittany Frazier alleviated the pressure and stopped 12 shots.

Maverick goalkeeper Allison Vroman made four saves for Mankato.

With the win, the Jacks get back on track after a loss Sept. 22 at the University of Nebraska-Omaha Tournament.

“I think the season’s going great,” said Briggs. “We’ve only lost two … but we were in the game the whole time. It came down to luck.”

NCC soccer action continues this Friday when NDSU meets St. Cloud on Jackrabbit home turf.

Briggs said the team plans to meet the Huskies head on.

“You gotta show up with your best game,” said Briggs. “Otherwise you’re gonna get beat.”

#1.887954:3145457416.jpg:soccer.jpg:Sophomore Michelle Rahe tries to outpace a Minnesota State/Mankato Maverick in NCC action Sept. 27 at Bob Shelden Field. The Jacks took the match 2-1, after Casper, Wyo., native Melissa Speiser scored her first goal of the season to break a second-half tie. The Jacks continue NCC action Oct. 4 in a home match-up against NDSU.: