GALESBURG, Illinois - The Knox Prairie Fire women's soccer team defeated the Lawrence University Vikings at Jorge Prats field this Friday by a final score of 3-0. With their dominant performance today, Knox advances into the Midwest Conference Tournament final this Saturday where they will face Beloit College.

The Prairie Fire got off to a fast start when Lydia Mitchell slotted home the game's opening shot for a nice goal in the 6th minute. Taken aback by Knox's fast attack, Lawrence parked the bus in order to stop the bleeding, keeping most of their players in their defensive third. This kept the Prairie Fire from getting a large amount of good opportunities, but it also prevented the Vikings from creating any chances whatsoever. In a testament to their complete control of every aspect of the game, Knox only allowed four shots the entire game, and never seemed remotely in danger. Despite this, the Prairie Fire were limited to their single first half goal.

Knox continued their excellent play in the second half, earning several corner kicks and coming close to scoring as well. Even given these opportunities, the team was unable to build on their lead until the 61st minute, when Mitchell scored another goal unassisted. Her 16th goal of the season, she continued her path of leading the Prairie Fire to new heights with her leadership and personal play. Spurred on by her goal, Emily McParland scored Knox's third goal of the game off a lovely assist from Emma Art in the 84th minute, cementing the win and moving Knox onto the final.

"We fought hard all season to get to this game," said head coach Taylor Houck. "Being predicted third this year, lit a fire in us to prove everyone wrong and today's win was a testament to the grit this team has. It was a great win, now it's time to focus on tomorrow's matchup."

Knox will attempt to secure their first Midwest Conference Tournament title since 2018 when they host Beloit College this Saturday at 11:00 a.m.