Hastings, Nebraska, October 12, 2025
In a thrilling match, the College of Saint Mary women’s soccer team pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset victory against Hastings College. Freshman Kayla Ruiz scored the decisive goal in the 55th minute, assisted by Mia Lopez. Goalkeeper Jordan Hayes showcased her skills with nine crucial saves, ensuring the Flames maintained a clean sheet. This win not only enhances the Flames’ playoff hopes in the GPAC but also underscores their growing competitiveness in women’s soccer in Nebraska.
College of Saint Mary Women’s Soccer Secures Upset Victory Over Hastings College
Hastings, Nebraska – The College of Saint Mary women’s soccer team achieved a significant 1-0 upset win against the NAIA powerhouse Hastings College on the road this afternoon. This victory marks a crucial boost for the Flames’ playoff aspirations in the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC).
The game’s lone goal came in the 55th minute, courtesy of freshman midfielder Kayla Ruiz, who capitalized on a corner kick assist from junior defender Mia Lopez. Goalkeeper Jordan Hayes played a pivotal role in preserving the clean sheet, making nine saves to secure her fourth shutout of the season. This defensive performance highlighted the team’s resilience and determination throughout the match.
Match Overview and Key Moments
The Flames entered the contest with a focus on maintaining a tight defense against a Hastings team known for dominating possession. Despite Hastings controlling much of the ball, they failed to convert opportunities into goals, thanks to Hayes’ outstanding saves and solid team defending. The match remained scoreless through the first half, with both sides trading chances but neither able to break the deadlock.
In the second half, the Flames found their breakthrough when Lopez delivered a precise corner kick that Ruiz headed into the net. This goal shifted the momentum, allowing College of Saint Mary to manage the game effectively and see out the victory. The upset win improves the Flames’ record to 7-5-2 in GPAC play, positioning them better for postseason contention.
The game drew over 800 fans to the sidelines in Hastings, creating an electric atmosphere for this gritty, low-scoring affair. Attendance underscored the local interest in women’s soccer within the Nebraska college athletics scene.
Team Performance and Implications
Defensive efforts stood out as the cornerstone of this win, embodying the team’s overall fighting spirit. Coach Lindsey Friedman emphasized how this performance reflects the group’s commitment to hard-fought battles. For Hastings, the loss represents a rare blemish, as their possession-based style did not translate into scoring chances against the Flames’ organized backline.
With this result, College of Saint Mary gains valuable points in the conference standings. The victory is particularly timely, as it comes amid a competitive GPAC schedule where every match impacts playoff seeding. The Flames now look ahead to their next challenge, hosting Doane University at home next Saturday.
Background on the Teams
The College of Saint Mary Flames compete in the NAIA’s Great Plains Athletic Conference, a league featuring strong programs across Nebraska and surrounding states. This season, the team has shown steady improvement, with Hayes anchoring the defense through multiple shutouts. Ruiz and Lopez represent the blend of youth and experience that has fueled recent successes.
Hastings College, a perennial contender in NAIA women’s soccer, entered the match with high expectations. Their inability to score despite controlling play highlights the effectiveness of College of Saint Mary’s strategy. Such upsets are common in conference play, where underdogs can thrive through disciplined execution.
This win adds to the growing narrative of College of Saint Mary emerging as a tougher opponent in the GPAC. As the regular season progresses, the Flames’ balance of offense and defense will be key to sustaining their momentum toward the playoffs. Fans can expect continued competitive action as the team prepares for the home matchup against Doane, another conference rival vying for positioning.
In the broader context of Nebraska college athletics, this result contributes to the state’s vibrant soccer scene. Women’s programs at institutions like College of Saint Mary continue to develop talent and draw community support, fostering growth in the sport at the NAIA level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the College of Saint Mary women’s soccer game against Hastings College?
The College of Saint Mary women’s soccer team won 1-0 against Hastings College.
Who scored the game-winning goal for the Flames?
Freshman midfielder Kayla Ruiz scored the game-winner in the 55th minute off a corner kick assist from junior defender Mia Lopez.
How did the goalkeeper perform in the match?
Goalkeeper Jordan Hayes recorded her fourth shutout of the season with 9 saves.
What is the Flames’ current record in GPAC play?
The Flames improve to 7-5-2 in GPAC play.
When and where is the College of Saint Mary’s next game?
CSM returns home to face Doane University next Saturday.
How many fans attended the match?
Over 800 fans witnessed the gritty match in Hastings, Nebraska.
Key Match Statistics
The following table outlines the essential features of the College of Saint Mary women’s soccer team’s performance in their 1-0 win over Hastings College.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | College of Saint Mary 1 – 0 Hastings College |
| Game-Winning Goal | Kayla Ruiz (55th minute, assist by Mia Lopez) |
| Goalkeeper Saves | Jordan Hayes: 9 saves, 4th shutout |
| Team Record (GPAC) | 7-5-2 |
| Attendance | Over 800 fans |
| Next Opponent | Doane University (home, next Saturday) |
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