North Dakota Fighting Hawks earned their first victory of the 2026 season, beating Presbyterian Blue Hose 2‑1 on their home field. The win improved the team's record to 1‑2‑0 and gave them a 1‑0‑0 lead in the series.
Key Moments and Scoring
The scoring opened with Lillian Bashaw finding the net in the 15th minute, heading in a pass from Viktoria Filsner. Presbyterian answered back in the 44th minute when Julija Poplašen leveled the match. The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Annie Stook rose for a header that sealed a 2‑1 win, marking her inaugural goal for the Fighting Hawks.
Statistically, North Dakota outshot the opposition 13‑11, registered seven shots on target to five, and dominated corner kicks 7‑3. Goalkeeper Thale Ruether made four saves, while the team logged a 11‑10 foul advantage, including two yellow cards.
Senior Day Honors
The upcoming home game on August 30 will feature Senior Day festivities, honoring five seniors — Brynn Belcher, Avery Toms, Cora Ellermann, Carly Brimhall, and Annie Stook — who have contributed to the program over their collegiate careers.