ABERDEEN, S.D. - The Northern State Wolves (12-3-2, 5-1-1 NSIC) experienced their first defeat in NSIC conference play, losing to the University of Mary (11-6-0, 6-3-0 NSIC) in their last regular season game. The University of Mary Marauders defeated the Wolves 1-0. The only goal of the game was scored by Mary's freshman forward Megan Wilson in the 31st minute of the game.

Northern State took the field this afternoon hoping for a win to seal their undefeated NSIC regular season play and bring home a conference championship. Unfortunately, those hopes faded as the final buzzer sounded, giving the University of Mary a 1-0 win. Northern State had not allowed a goal in conference play since their first game against Upper Iowa and had racked up seven consecutive shutouts since then. The Marauders' Megan Wilson scored her 12th goal of the season in the first half of play which turned out to be the game winner. Northern suffered a 1-0 loss to Mary in a non-conference game earlier this season.

Northern tallied 13 total shots and 8 on goal while Mary had 9 total shots and 6 on goal. Summer Swan and Maggie Fedor each put two shots on goal. Northern goal keeper Catherine Grace made five saves, allowing only one goal.

Tough play all season has given the Northern State Wolves a first round home game in the NSIC tournament. The Wolves will host the first round action on Wednesday, October, 31 at 3pm at Jerde Field. Their first round opponent has yet to be determined.