Cordon, Middleton get NIC closer to playoffs

SALT LAKE CITY - Emilee Cordon and Natalie Middleton scored in the first 16 minutes and the North Idaho College women's soccer team kept its postseason hopes alive with a 2-0 victory over the Salt Lake Community College club team Friday.

Cordon scored in the third minute on a looping shot over the Bruins' goalkeeper. Middleton hit a bouncing ball from just in front of the center circle that arced high and went through the Salt Lake keeper's hands.

"Our defense played very well," NIC coach Dan Hogan said. "While our goalies made seven saves, most of the shots were from far enough outside they were not difficult for Rodriguez and Mundel to handle."

NIC (6-6-2) faces the Colorado State club team today in Salt Lake City and needs a win or a tie to qualify for postseason play.

First half - 1, NIC, Emilee Cordon (unassisted), 3:00. 2, NIC, Natalie Middleton (unassisted), 16:00. Second half - none.

Shots on goal - NIC 13, SLCC 9.

Saves - NIC, Alex Rodriguez 3, Whittni Mundel 4; SLCC Ashley Earnshaw 7.