VERMILLION, S.D. – The Portland State women's soccer team found the breakthrough they needed, securing a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over South Dakota on Sunday. Trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Vikings stormed back with three second-half goals at the First Bank & Trust Soccer Complex.
 
The win moved the Vikings to 1-4-0 on the season, while the Coyotes fell to 2-3-2.
 
South Dakota struck twice in quick succession, scoring in the 33rd and 36th minutes to take a 2-0 lead. But the Vikings responded with resilience after halftime.
 
Abi Hoffman ignited the comeback for Portland State in the 51st minute, striking a bullet into the back of the net off a free kick feed from Sydney Watson. Hoffman then equalized in the 69^th minute with a rare but remarkable olimpico goal directly off a corner kick. The game-winner came in the 78th minute when junior Elle Frazier scored her first goal of the season, finishing a cross from Aliayha Saldana.
 
Despite a late push from the Coyotes, Portland State held on to secure its first victory of the season.
 
The Vikings dominated the second half, outshooting South Dakota 16-5 and finishing with a 20-10 shot advantage overall. They also put a season-high 11 shots on goal, led by Hoffman's career-high seven shots, four of which were on target. Natalie Cunningham and Eden Millan split time in goal for the Vikings, combining for three saves in the win. 
 
Portland State will now return home for a three-match homestand, starting with a matchup against Hawaii on Thursday, Sept. 12, at Hillsboro Stadium (6:00 p.m. PT).
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