LOGAN, Utah – Despite taking the early lead, a pair of late goals by the opponent led to a home-opening loss for Utah State soccer, which fell to Minnesota, 2-1, Sunday. 

With the loss, Utah State falls to 0-2 on the season, while Minnesota moves to 2-0. 

The Aggies were first on the board Sunday, as their first shot of the day found the back of the net at the 25-minute mark. A cross from sophomore midfielder Ashley Cardozo landed at the feet of freshman forward Sara Noel, who then kicked it past the Minnesota keeper for the first goal of her collegiate career. 

Utah State took its lead into the second half, but Minnesota came out strong and quickly answered. After taking 14 shots, eight of which were on goal,  the Gophers tied the score at one in the 69th minute of action. The Aggie offense kept the ball on its end of the field for the next few minutes, getting a pair of shots up, but Minnesota was then able to regain control and took the lead in the 77th minute with another long cross over the penalty box. 

After several substitutions on both sides of the field, the teams battled for the final minutes, but the Gophers maintained the lead for the win.

On the day, Minnesota out-shot Utah State, 18-5, including a 10-2 on goal advantage. Senior goalkeeper Grace McGuire played the full match for the Aggies, tying her career-high with eight saves.

Utah State will return to action at home on Friday, Aug. 24, when the Aggies host in-state rival Utah in a 4 p.m. match.

Fans can follow Utah State soccer on Twitter, @USUSoccer, on Instagram, @USUSoccer, as well as on Facebook, at /USUSoccer. Aggie fans can also follow Utah State Athletics on Twitter, @USUAthletics, on Instagram, @USUAthletics and on Facebook at /USUAthletics.