MADISON, WISC. - In its first year competing at a higher division, the Madison College women's soccer team proved they belong in the annual conversation of contenders. Unfortunately, the #4-seeded WolfPack bid for a fifth region crown in seven years was cut short Sunday with a 1-0 quarterfinal loss to #5-seeded Morton College in the 2023 NJCAA Region 4 Division II Tournament. The Panthers win in the first-ever meeting between the two programs advances Morton College (7-6-1) to the semifinals, where they will play top-seeded Rock Valley College on Wednesday. Madison College finishes their season with an 8-4-3 record.

The visiting Panthers controlled the ball for most of the opening half of play, which included the game's only goal. A quick throw-in had Morton College on the attack as the clock moved into the 27', and as congestion grew near the top of the box, the Panthers played the ball out to the left corner of the 18-yard line. A shot lofted from there curled over the extended arms of WolfPack goalkeeper Morgan Thompson and just inside the opposite post for a 1-0 lead. Morton College finished the first half with a 12-0 lead in total shots.

The WolfPack was able to generate more offensive looks and played more aggressive soccer in the second half, registering three total shots and putting two on goal. The Panthers goalkeeper came up with saves each time to keep the Pack out of the net.

Freshman forward Delaney Bracken and sophomore midfielder Samantha Petroski recorded the team's two shots on goal, with second year midfielder Kierstin McHugh adding a late shot attempt in the 87' that sailed over the crossbar.

Thompson finished the match with nine saves to reach 67 for the season. The New Glarus, Wisconsin, native will leave Madison College second on the all-time saves list with 182.

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