MILWAUKEE – The MSOE women's soccer team scored a goal in each half on its way to a 2-0 victory over defending WIAC champion UW-Whitewater Wednesday evening at Viets Field.

The Raiders (3-1) looked dangerous throughout the night against the Warhawks (3-2), who went 17-1-4 last season.

Junior Natalie Gayner gave MSOE the 1-0 lead in the 30th minute, finishing a rebound off sophomore Sara Travia's initial shot. Travia made a run down the right side and sent a shot off the cross bar. Gayner followed the play down the middle of the field and was there to finish the loose ball.

The Warhawks pressured the Raiders early on, forcing 11 corner kicks in the first half. MSOE did well to absorb the pressure and actually outshot UWW, 9-8.

In the second half, the Red & White continued to play well and withstood everything the visitors threw at it. The Raiders looked to extend their lead on a number of counter-attacks, utilizing the speed of Travia and Gayner to stretch the back line of the Warhawks.

Travia's skill was on display late in the match, as she forged back-to-back breakaway opportunities. Each time, it prompted the last defender back to grab her jersey. After yellow cards in the 81st and 83rd minutes, UWW's Kaitlyn Fritsch was sent off and her team was down to 10 players.

Two minutes later, MSOE got the insurance goal it was craving. Junior Caitlin Liddiard took a corner kick from the near side and sent it to the far post. Travia headed it back in front of goal and freshman Carley Mitus was there to head it into the goal for the 2-0 lead.

Whitewater was not done, as a sophomore Sydney Stephens came up with her biggest save of the season in the 88th minute on a point-blank shot off the foot of Marie Lesperence. Stephens finished with four saves in the match for her first shutout of the season and the team's second in as many games.

The Raiders outshot UWW 17-16 in the match, putting six more shots on goal (10-4). Jordan Myers was called on for six saves on the night, including five on Travia shots alone. The Warhawks finished with a 15-3 advantage in corner kicks.

MSOE returns to action Sunday, hosting another WIAC school in UW-Stout. The Raiders and Blue Devils kick off at 1 p.m. at Viets Field.