BISMARCK, N.D. – A lock-down defensive effort by the University of Mary earned the Marauders a 0-0 tie with Montana State University – Billings in the women's soccer season opener.
 
A veteran defensive unit for the Marauders grabbed control in the first half, holding the Yellowjackets without a single shot, on frame or off. Senior defenders Emily Christensen, Jacquelyn Smith and Mykala Benjamin combined forces with junior Alexis Nahring and freshman Caitlin Dooley to limit the offensive efforts of MSUB.
 
"We received a great defensive effort out of the team today and we put in good energy to try to press to win towards the end of the game," said Marauders head coach Sarah Cook. "Overall I was very pleased with the team's effort and we will be better in the future from this game!"
 
Defense dominated the entire game with neither team getting many scoring looks. The Marauders appeared to break through in the second overtime but an apparent goal was waived off after officials rules U-Mary's Michele McGeary dribbled the ball out of bounds over the goal line before centering it back to the middle.
 
Bailey Wenz picked up her first career shutout for the Marauders. The senior stopped all three shots on goal by the Yellowjackets. Lili Degadillo for MSUB also recorded three saves.
 
The Marauders held a slight 6-4 edge in shots attempted. Both sides managed just three shots on frame. MSUB had a 7-2 advantage in corner kicks.
 
After today's season opener at home, the Marauders now embark on a six game road trip. U-Mary next plays at the University of Central Missouri on Sept. 10. The next home game is Oct. 3 against Upper Iowa.
 
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