The only prediction that didn’t come true, however, was an MSU victory, as No. 11 Iowa (14-5, 4-2) advances to the second round.

Although the score was close, the game was dominated by Iowa, as it outshot the Spartans 24-5. The second half was the most dominating for the Hawkeyes, as they didn’t allow the Spartans to take a shot the entire 35 minutes.

Although MSU’s offense was ineffective for the better part of the game, the Spartans’ defense highlighted the game. Junior goaltender Molly Cassidy kept the Spartans competitive by making 12 saves, including seven in the first half.

“(Cassidy) played one of her best games of the season,” head coach Helen Knull said.

Sophomore forward Abby Barker scored the first goal of the game 10 minutes into the contest, giving her 18 goals on the season.

Iowa finally opened up the door to the goal by netting its first ball 12 minutes into the second half. The game then ended 10 minutes into overtime off of one of Iowa’s 14 penalty corners.

It might have been a disappointing end to their roller coaster of a season, but Knull believes that this season shined a bright light on the potential of the program.

“We have moved the program forward another step during the 2012 season,” Knull said. “I would like to thank our five seniors for all their contributions to the program. Their heart, desire and passions toward the program will be missed.”

The Spartans’ chances of making the 16-team NCAA Tournament are slim, making Thursday’s loss likely the last game of the season.

The Good News
Thursday wasn’t all bad news, as four Spartans earned Big Ten postseason honors.

Barker, who scored a team-high 18 goals on the year, was named to the All-Big Ten First Team. Barker was one of two sophomores who made the 12-person honorary team.

Junior back Kristen Henn and sophomore midfielder Becky Stiles received All-Big Ten Second Team accolades as well.

Senior back Corey Block was the MSU representative who was named a Sportsmanship Award Honoree.