SPENCER, Iowa – The Iowa Lakes women's soccer team earned a gritty 1–0 victory over Western Iowa Tech on Saturday afternoon, securing their eighth clean sheet of the season behind another composed defensive effort and strong goalkeeping from Holly Poole.

The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute off a well-practiced free kick routine. Captain Emma Fournie delivered a perfectly placed ball into the box, where fellow captain Ana Zamorano headed it across goal to Stina Mathews, who slotted it home for the game's only goal. The play displayed both leadership and precision — hallmarks of Iowa Lakes' identity this season.

Unfortunately, Zamorano suffered an injury on the scoring play and did not continue. Despite the setback, the Lakers rallied around their captain and maintained focus to see out the match.

Poole made three saves to record the shutout, as the Lakers limited Western Iowa Tech to just three total shots — none in the second half — while creating eight of their own, six on target.

The match featured three yellow cards: one to Western Iowa Tech in the 29th minute and two to Iowa Lakes — Amelie Prie (40th minute) and Fournie (75th minute).

Played under mild fall conditions with light winds and comfortable temperatures, the game was a tactical, physical contest that highlighted Iowa Lakes' composure and defensive discipline.

Head Coach Mukwa Ogitchida praised his team's mentality in a challenging, emotional win:

"This was the kind of game that tests your focus. We've been working on managing tempo and staying patient, and today the group did exactly that. It wasn't flashy, but it was a professional win — and those matter the most at this point in the season."

With the win, Iowa Lakes improves to 8–4–1 overall and 5–1 in ICCAC play, remaining tied for first place in the conference. The Lakers now turn their attention to a massive home matchup against Hawkeye Community College on Wednesday, with both teams 5–1 in conference play and battling for the top spot with two games remaining.