DUBUQUE, Iowa – In a match defined by sustained pressure and late drama, the Graceland University women's soccer team earned a 2-1 victory over Clarke University Tuesday evening at Dalzell Field. Despite trailing inside the final five minutes, the Yellowjackets responded with two goals in the final three minutes to secure the conference win.

The result moves Graceland to 6-7-3 overall and 3-6-2 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play, while Clarke falls to 5-8-2 overall and 4-6-1 in conference.

The opening half was scoreless, though Clarke generated a heavy share of attacking possession. The Pride outshot Graceland 10-3 in the first 45 minutes, earning three corner kicks to the Yellowjackets' three. Still, Graceland goalkeeper Maggie Peterson was strong between the posts, recording three first-half saves to keep the match level at the break.

In the second half, both teams continued pressing for an opener, with Clarke ultimately striking first. In the 86th minute, Clarke forward Liv Turnquist capitalized on a loose ball in the final third, netting an unassisted goal to give the home side a 1-0 lead.

However, Graceland responded almost immediately.

Just over two minutes later, the Yellowjackets were awarded a penalty kick, and junior midfielder Sierra Flores calmly converted from the spot in the 88th minute, tying the match at 1-1 and swinging momentum sharply back in Graceland's favor.

The turnaround continued just over a minute later. In the 89th minute, forward Chloe Montera found space in the box and tucked away the eventual match-winner off an assist from senior Tessa Cook, giving Graceland its first lead of the match and sealing the result at 2-1.

"It was a gritty performance," head coach Randall Porter said postmatch. "Very very proud of the ladies tonight. Give up a bad goal with 5 minutes left and find a way to get 2 in the last 3 minutes is a great testament to the growth this group has shown. We weren't our best tonight but we found a way to get 3 points."

Graceland was outshot 26-12 overall, including 16-9 in the second half, but the Yellowjackets were efficient in front of goal. Of their 12 shots, five were on frame, including both goals.

Montera and Flores led the attack with three and two shots on goal respectively. Flores finished with one goal on four total shots, while Montera recorded one goal on six total attempts. Cook registered the lone assist.

Peterson earned the win in goal for Graceland, improving her season record to 2-2-1. She finished the night with seven saves on eight shots on goal faced, including two key stops in the final minutes to preserve the win.

Clarke's attack was paced by Audrey McKenna and Hailey Packer, who combined for 12 total shots. The Pride earned seven corner kicks compared to Graceland's three, but were unable to convert their chances in the run of play.

Discipline factored into the match flow, with Clarke issued one yellow card in the 17th minute. Graceland committed eight fouls, while Clarke was whistled for ten.

The result provides a critical late-season boost for the Yellowjackets, who continue to battle for postseason positioning in the Heart standings. It also marked a positive response to recent form, as Graceland has now earned a result in two of its last three matches.

Next up, Graceland returns home to host MidAmerica Nazarene University in Heart of America Athletic Conference play. The match is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, with kickoff set for 5:00 p.m. CDT at the Rasmussen Sports Complex in Lamoni, Iowa. The fixture will also serve as Senior Night for the Yellowjackets.

For more information on Graceland women's soccer and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.