OMAHA, Neb. - The University of North Dakota (0-1) opened its season on Friday at Omaha (1-0-2), battling indoors and away from the elements. However, the Maverick defense stymied the Fighting Hawks attack to hand UND its first loss of 2021.

North Dakota was unable to control most of the possession in the opening 45 minutes of play as Omaha registered five corner kicks and seven shots, including two on frame. 

The Mavericks opened the scoring register in the 10th minute with Andrea Daves' goal at the top of the 18-yard box, ripping one high above goalkeeper Maddie Livingston's head and hands. UNO doubled its lead in the 40th minute on a header by Hannah Heinemann in the lower corner of the frame.

The Fighting Hawks defense held firm for the opening 20 minutes of the second half and worked to get the ball over the midfield, advancing it just outside the 18-yard box. However, the Hawks could not reach Mavs box in the half as the defense cleared the UND threat.

Heinemann scored her second of the match in the 65th minute, leading to two more Omaha scores in the 73rd and 78th.

North Dakota did improve its possession as the match progressed, only allowing Omaha to two corner kicks in the final 45 minutes and recording one in the second period.

The Fighting Hawks and Mavericks will close the series on Monday, Feb. 22 at 9:45 a.m., at The Center in Omaha.