KALAMAZOO, Mich.- Kent State's Madison Helterbran lifted the Golden Flashes to a 1-0 win over Western Michigan Friday, heading in a corner kick with 11 seconds left in overtime.
The Broncos had few offensive opportunities in the first half, however came out in the second with a more spirited style of play. WMU was limited to just five total shots and one on goal, all but one of those coming after the half.
Ashley Sudomeier tested Kent State keeper Stephanie Senn with WMU's lone shot on goal in the 51st minute. Helterbran returned the favor a minute later, forcing WMU's Michelle Watson to make one of her six saves. Helterban positioned herself directly in the front of the goal and headed a shot down, but Watson batted the ball away.
Kent State failed to capitalize on a free kick just left of goal 25 yards out in the 74th minute as Morgan Mah sent her offering over the top.
Watson held strong on a corner kick at the beginning of the first overtime. She came off her line to punch the ball away and was greeted with a lot of contact. The ball momentarily was loose in the box as Watson got knocked to the ground before the Bronco defense could safely clear it away.
Helterbran's golden goal with 11 seconds left in overtime came off a corner on the left side by Jaclyn Dutton. It was her first goal of the season.
With the win, KSU improved to 9-3-2 overall and 4-2-1 in the Mid-American Conference. WMU dropped to 5-7-3, 1-3-3.
Western Michigan hosts Ohio Sunday at 1 p.m. in the final home game of the season. The Broncos will recognize their five seniors, Kelsey Baskins, Anina Cicerone, Stefana Ciraulo, Megan Matula and Brittney Pavlica.
