The Drake women's soccer team defeated Iowa State, 2-1, Sunday afternoon in Ames, Iowa, behind two first-half goals and another strong defensive performance. 

In the sixth minute, junior Delaney Goertzen delivered a free kick into the box. A Cyclone player headed the ball that then ended up at the feet of freshman Hallie Peak who scored for Drake. The goal marks Peak's first of her collegiate career.  

"We spent a lot of time with the scout and in training working on our free kicks, as ISU has conceded on them in their last two games. We are thrilled to demonstrate our ability to score goals and have focused on defending for the majority of this portion of our non-conference schedule," said head coach Lindesey Horner.

Iowa State out-shot the Bulldogs 25-2 and registered 14 shots in the first half alone. The Cyclones also earned nine corner kicks. 

Iowa State maintained possession for most of the match but were unable to get past Drake's defense despite spending 45 percent of the match in the attacking zone. Drake's defensive efforts were led by Goertzen, senior Megan Valenzuela and keeper Kelsie Stone.  

Morina Sutter-Doerig scored the Cyclones lone goal in the 33rd minute off a pass from Mira Emma.  

Almost three minutes after the Cyclones tied the game, senior Libby Helverson took a free kick for the Bulldogs that landed at the feet of senior Alison Walls. Walls delivered a left-footed strike into the bottom left corner, putting the Bulldogs up 2-1.  

"I know we can tidy up on our clearances and competing in the air, but I was most pleased with our ability to stay steady mentally throughout the game. Obviously we had to absorb a lot of ISU's attack as we played with the lead and the emotions on the field were heightened, but our team was up for it. I'm just really pleased for our players to enjoy this result," said Horner.

Senior goalkeeper and MVC Defensive Player of the Week Kelsie Stone recorded 10 saves off of the numerous scoring opportunities Iowa State generated. She currently leads the MVC with most saves this season with 32 and best saves per game average. 

Horner said, "These first four games were challenging and to get two results at Big 12 schools is a great starting point for us as we flip the calendar to September and use the rest of the of our non-conference to prep for MVC play." 

The Bulldogs return to Des Moines to take on SIUE Friday Sept. 3. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. at Drake Stadium.