FARGO, N.D. - The North Dakota State soccer team clinched a spot in the Summit League tournament with a 5-1 victory over UMKC on Sunday, Oct. 25.  It will be the first tournament appearance for the Bison (9-6-2, 6-1 Summit) since joining the league in 2007.  Seniors Becky Iwanicki, Laura Murphy and Lorraine Thompson were honored before the game for their contributions to Bison soccer.  NDSU finished its home schedule with a 6-1 mark and a perfect 4-0 record in Summit League games. 

The Bison tallied 11 shots in the first 22 minutes, forcing Kangaroo goalie Jami Finnell into five saves.  Junior Quin Ryan finally broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute, sliding to put in a rebound off the goalie.  It was Ryan's fourth goal of the year.

NDSU took a 2-0 lead less than two minutes later when junior Abbey Stratton headed in a corner kick from Ryan for her second goal in two games.

The Bison continued to pressure the UMKC defense and sophomore Michelle Gaffaney added a third goal in the 35th minute.  It was Gaffaney's first goal of the season.  Freshman Shannon Brooks assisted on the goal.

NDSU made it a 4-0 game less than two minutes later when sophomore Danielle DeMent scored off a rebound.

UMKC had a couple early chances in the second half and freshman goalie Christie Stemple made two saves.  The Kangaroos got on the board in the 63rd minute when Zaina Mayer put in a loose ball in the box, making it a 4-1 game.

Sophomore Danielle Boldenow added a fifth goal for the Bison in the 75th minute.  It was her second of the season.

The Bison tallied season highs in both shots with 41 and shots on goal with 21.  Sophomore goalie Kalani Bertsch played the first half and made one save, while Stemple played the second half and made three stops.

NDSU now travels to Brookings, S.D. for a game against South Dakota State on Saturday, Oct. 31 at noon.  The Bison will then head to Kansas City for a final regular season matchup against Centenary on Monday, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m.  Earlier this season, the game at Centenary had been canceled due to unplayable field conditions.  The make-up game will be played at UMKC.

The Summit League tournament will be played Nov. 6 and 8 in Brookings, S.D.