PHOENIX, Ariz. - The NM State soccer team (3-5) held off a fierce comeback by Grand Canyon (1-6) in a 2-1 win over the Antelopes Saturday afternoon at GCU Stadium in Phoenix, Ariz. Saturday was the first time the Aggies have beaten Grand Canyon in Phoenix, and it also tied for the most wins in WAC play under head coach Rob Baarts.

The Aggies wasted no time getting on the board, as sophomore Hannah Leitner broke away from the pack on a pass from junior Corey Kizer. Leitner made an incredible move to juke out the Antelopes' goalie for her second goal of the season. In the 33rd minute, the Aggies were able to capitalize off of a penalty kick, as freshman Megan Ormson picked a perfect spot in the bottom-left corner to give the Aggies a two-goal cushion.

In the second half, the Aggies struggled to keep possession, as the Antelopes were able to get off 14 shots compared to the Aggies' two. Junior Makenna Gottschalk and the Aggie back line was terrific all day, as Gottschalk recorded a season-high 11 saves for the Aggies. 

The two teams were extremely physical which resulted in three combined yellow cards and 28 combined fouls.

The Aggies will be back in action next week against UTRGV. The teams will play Thursday (7 p.m.) and Saturday (1 p.m.) at University Field in El Paso, Texas.

For updates throughout the season, follow the Aggies on Twitter (@NMStateWSOC), Instagram (nmstatewsoc) and Facebook (NM State WSOC)

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