After a thrilling double-overtime win over the Denver Pioneers, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits will look to stay undefeated in Summit League play during Hobo Week.
The two matches will be against long-time rivals University of South Dakota (7-4-2) on Thursday, Oct. 11 and North Dakota State University (6-5-0) on Sunday, Oct. 14.
These matches will come after the team’s win against Denver, with Leah Manuleleua scoring the game-winning kick with 21 seconds left in the second overtime period.
“What I’m most proud of is we had the best week of training we have had all season long,” coach Brock Thompson said. “… [T]he growth we had in training I think has allowed our players to see that there is another level that we are capable of.”
SDSU’s offensive attack continues to be led by freshman midfielder Karlee Manding with five goals and one assist. On the other side, junior goalkeeper Maggie Smither continues to protect the Jackrabbit goal with 64 saves.
Smither is second in the Summit League in saves, save percentage and goals against.
The Coyotes will be coming to Brookings on a two-game win streak against Oral Roberts and Western Illinois. USD has had a well-balanced conference season with only one loss so far.
From the north, the Bison will be coming fresh off a win against the University of North Dakota. NDSU’s season has been heavy on wins as well, with its conference record being 3-1 so far.
“USD is very dynamic across the front line,” Thompson said. “Their forwards have scored a number of goals, they’re ultra-dangerous, and obviously with it being a rivalry game it’s going to be a physical battle that’s going to hinge on the players, pretty much like (Sunday’s) game.”
USD’s offensive line is currently led by junior forward Taryn LaBree with five goals and three assists. The defensive side also remains solid with senior goalkeeper Parker Rytz having 56 saves so far this season.
NDSU’s lead offensive player, junior forward Mariah Harberle, currently holds five goals and two assists. Junior goalkeeper Monica Polgar has held the defense with 47 saves so far this season.
The Coyotes will be playing the Jacks at 6 p.m., Oct. 11 at the Fishback Soccer Field in Brookings. The Jackrabbits will then travel and play the Bison at 1 p.m., Oct. 14 in Fargo.
