In the classic intrastate rivalry matchup between Missouri and Missouri State, the Tigers managed to defeat the Bears 2-0.

However, both scores came in the final ten minutes of play. Prior to that, the Missouri squad led by head coach Stefanie Golan seemed unable to put away Missouri State for much of the game’s duration.

Beginning in the first half, both teams had moments of success, but it was Missouri who forced its way into its opponent’s backfield more. Yet when it came time to execute on shot-delivery, the Tigers came up empty time and again.

Never able to find space on their first seven shot attempts, the Tigers were unable to score as Missouri State goalie Ella Becker consistently came up big for the Bears when they needed her most. Even when Missouri managed to have her defensively unsound, defenders Jane Hansen, Maddie Schneiderhahn and Kayla Smith, all played an effort in thwarting the Tiger’s attempts for a goal.

Heading into the half, Missouri needed a boost, and yet coming out of it, the game remained stagnant, as neither team managed to progress on offense compared to the first half. Adding another four unsuccessful shot attempts on goal through 35 minutes, Missouri looked ready to accept a draw.

Then the Tigers offense found life. In the 80th minute of the game, junior midfielder Olivia Chianelli found the bottom left of the goal with a strong right foot shot past multiple defenders and the goalie. Quickly after that, sophomore forward Ava Vetter entered the mix, scoring off a similar touch less than four minutes later.

With the back-to-back scores and so little time left, Missouri had the advantage it needed to coast to a 2-0 victory.

Despite the win, it is still evident Stefanie Golan’s roster has a long way to go. Five minutes of offensive success won’t cut it against the tough SEC schedule to come. However, wins do matter, and with Sunday’s victory, Missouri moved to 2-2-1 on the young season.

Missouri returns to action Sept. 4, hosting Illinois.