“I was actually really proud at how we came out," redshirt junior goalkeeper Reilley Ott said. "We played really well and I feel like in the past couple games we’ve been like hit and miss. But I feel like finally our midfield is coming together and we didn’t have nearly as many defensive breakdowns. I just wish that we could’ve scored.”

The second half of the game was similar to the first. Both teams battled hard to ensure the other did not score. There were injured knees and balls to the face, but nothing too serious occurred. During the last minute of the second half, it looked as if sophomore forward Alexandra Thomas was going to score, but it was countered by Minnesota’s Delaney Stekr, who swept Thomas right off her feet. This led the game into overtime.

“We took advantage of sleeping in our own beds and came out and played," coach Tom Saxton said. "This was night and day as compared to our performance against Indiana as a team so I’m pleased that we’re taking steps forward.”

The momentum continued into double overtime, as neither team scored in the first extra period.  The Spartans and Golden Gophers matched up very well as both put forth a strong defensive effort, evidenced by the final result. 

The Spartans will play next on Sunday at DeMartin Stadium against the University of Wisconsin. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.