Minneapolis, Minn. – The Crown women's soccer team got an equalizing goal from Monika Russell near the end of the first half, but saw the game slip away on a late penalty kick goal, falling 2-1 to North Central on Wednesday.

Crown continued their improved play on Wednesday, creating plenty of chances, but struggled to find the finishing touch. 

The team fell behind early on a nice goal from a free kick, scored by NCU transfer Dakotah Sparrman, who fired 10 shots on the day.

They pulled back even when Katelyn Carter headed a cleared corner kick back into the box and Russell slashed it past the Rams keeper to even the score.

NCU was able to earn a late penalty, however, and Sparrman made no mistake from the spot, converting the penalty and sending the hosts to a 2-1 victory.