Former Esko-Carlton Star Caitlin Lilly Leads Winona State To NSIC Finals

Nov 6, 2012

Wes Vork-NSO

Former Esko-Carlton standout Caitlin Lilly scored the go-ahead goal with 15 minutes to play as the Winona State soccer team posted a 2-1 victory over Upper Iowa last Friday in the semi-finals of the NSIC/US Bank Tournament in Mankato.

Lilly’s goal came just 14 seconds after Upper Iowa tied the game at one late in the second half. Kelsey Foss and Rebecca McCoy earned assists on the play as the Warriors used the goal to advance to the NSIC Tournament championship game.

Winona State had taken a 1-0 lead early in the second half after Upper Iowa knocked a shot into their own goal. The Peacocks responded with a goal by Kelsey Taldone at the 75:02 mark to tie the contest at one.

Lilly was able to find a crack in the Upper Iowa defense just seconds later to score the fifth goal of her freshman campaign, tied for best on the team.

Alexandra Vial was strong in goal once again, making eight saves. Both teams recorded 18 shots during the game, with the Warriors putting 12 of their shots on goal.

Winona State (16-4 overall) advanced to play Minot State. Despite outshooting Minot State by a 19-4 margin, the Warriors fell in the championship game by a 1-0 score.

Winona State has claimed six of the last 13 NSIC Tournament titles, the most recent coming in 2010.

Although Lilly didn’t start a single game for the Warriors, she played in all 21 games and led the team with a total of 13 points from five goals and three assists. Lilly also led the team in the all important game winning goal category with three goals.

Lilly’s fellow Esko-Carlton teammate Amanda Bergstedt also plays for the Warriors.

The Warriors finished up the 2012 campaign with a 16-5 overall record.

Wes Vork can be reached at wes@northlandsportsonline.com