BISMARCK, ND – After contributing to a pair of shutouts in a reserve role last season, Molly Fischer made her presence felt on the pitch in the 2023 season opener for the University of Mary women's soccer team. Fischer earned her first solo collegiate clean sheet as the Marauders played visiting Westen Colorado University to a scoreless draw.
 
A junior goalkeeper from Orland Park, IL, Fischer made four saves in the contest, including three in the second half to hold the Mountaineers at bay.
 
A tightly contested contest in the first game of the season for both teams, the Marauders and the Mountaineers were credited with nine shots apiece with Western Colorado leading 5-3 in attempts on frame.
 
UMary held the attack edge in the first half, firing three shots on target to only one for Western Colorado. The Marauders just missed on a scoring opportunity in the closing seconds. Breaking down the right side, MaLiah Burke's attempt towards the left corner of the net was turned aside by Mountaineers goaltender Mei Hayashizaki.
 
The Mountaineers found their stride in the second half, holding a 6-5 edge in shots. Western's best opportunity came in the 55^th minute as a ball played from left to right in front of the Marauders net looked like it would be tapped home in front of the right post before Marauders all-conference defender and team captain Mo Malone swept in to clear the ball out of danger.
 
The Marauders earned a 5-3 edge in corner kicks but were whistled for 12 penalties to four for the Mountaineers.
 
UMary next hosts MSU Moorhead on Monday, September 4. The non-conference meeting between the Northern Sun foes is set for 2 pm on Labor Day at the MDU Resources Community Bowl.
 
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