WASHINGTON, Mich. — Mari Williams found the back of the net early, and the Indiana University Northwest women's soccer team held on for a 1-0 victory over Rochester Christian on Friday at Michigan Stars.
The RedHawks wasted little time establishing an attacking presence, putting pressure on the Rochester Christian defense from the opening whistle. Williams nearly broke through in the opening minutes before finally finding her chance in the 14th minute.
At 13:16, Williams collected the ball and fired a shot past the Rochester Christian goalkeeper for the first goal of the 2026 season. The unassisted tally gave IUN a 1-0 advantage.
The RedHawks continued to create opportunities throughout the opening half. IUN finished the match with 17 shots, including nine on goal. Williams led IUN with five shots and three shots on goal, while Teyha Guiden added five shots and two on target.
IUN goalkeeper Kaleigh Blatti answered the challenge, making six saves to preserve the shutout. The RedHawks defense weathered Rochester Christian's pressure throughout the second half, limiting the Warriors to seven second-half shots and keeping the home side off the scoreboard.
Despite being down a player for the entire second half, IUN continued to generate chances of its own. Juju Bozinovski forced a save in the 65th minute, while Guiden and Daisy Bonilla each had late opportunities.
When the final whistle sounded, the RedHawks had secured the season-opening victory and a clean sheet on the road. The RedHawks return to action Sunday, Aug. 23, at Madonna University, with kickoff set for 10 a.m. CDT in Livonia, Michigan.
