CALEDONIA, Mich. — Parkside (7-5-2, 7-2-1 GLIAC) picked up its first victory in Grand Rapids in more than three years on Sunday afternoon, defeating Davenport (4-7-3, 4-5-1 GLIAC) by a 1-0 margin at the Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex. The win, fueled by a freshman breakthrough and a stout defensive effort, keeps the Rangers in sole possession of second place in the GLIAC standings.

After controlling much of the opening half, the Rangers finally broke through in the 45th minute. Off a corner from the right flag by Kayden Schmidt, the service dropped into a crowded penalty area where Kate Brown flicked a one-touch pass across the six-yard box to freshman defender Emily Giese. The first-year standout made no mistake, slotting home her first career goal to give Parkside a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

The Rangers dictated play from the start, finishing with an 18-3 advantage in total shots and an 8-1 edge on frame. Emily Mikkelson paced the attack with seven shots, including four on target, while Ava Rizzitano and Grace Breuchel each added multiple looks as Parkside kept the Panthers under constant pressure. Davenport goalkeepers Bailey Gauthier and Elizabeth Wolter were tested early and often, combining for seven saves to keep the match close. The Rangers also drew 12 Panther fouls and held a 2-1 edge in corner kicks.

Defensively, Parkside was clinical once again, anchored by senior goalkeeper Tristen Cross, who stopped the lone shot she faced en route to her third shutout of the season. The back line limited Davenport to just two second-half shots and never allowed a dangerous look from open play. 

The Rangers' four-match road trip continues next week as they head north to Houghton, Michigan, to face Michigan Tech on Thursday, Oct. 31, at 5 p.m. The two teams played to a draw earlier this season in Kenosha. To keep up with Parkside Athletics all season long, visit parksiderangers.com/coverage.