Simpson (0-1-0) and Grinnell College (1-0-0) needed 103 minutes of play broken up by a 30-minute lightning delay to determine the outcome of Friday’s season opener. Grinnell’s Dabney Hofammann broke a 1-1 tie in the third minute of two overtimes, giving Grinnell the win. This is the second one-goal victory for Grinnell over the Storm in as many years.

Grinnell’s Carolyn Silverman gave Grinnell their first lead of the game when she scored in the 39^th minute. The Pioneers clung to their 1-0 advantage until Simpson’s Katelyn Behaunek sent a high arching shot that slipped through the goalkeeper’s hands into the net, tying up the game in the 90^th minute.

Simpson had a series of chances on goal in the first overtime, but were unable to convert, including a Heather Adolph set piece that sailed just wide of the Pioneer goal. This opened the door for the Pioneers to take the game in the second overtime period.

Much of the game was played in the middle of the field with both teams combining for only 16 shots on goal. Poor weather conditions made it difficult for the two teams to put together offensive pushes. Aggressive play escalated late into the game, leading to 17 combined fouls between the two teams.

Despite losing, five-year coach Ryan Sander was encouraged with his team’s performance.

“I think we have great chemistry, I think everybody has gotten to know each other,” said Sander. “It doesn’t matter what grade everybody is in, I think we have great chemistry, everybody has integrated into the team very well.” And watching it, they do have good chemistry.

He described the team as balanced, saying “I play my best 11 regardless of who that is, regardless of grade. That’s who we are going to play.” He also said that the team is building and they are excited to see what they can do this year, looking to improve upon their (4-16-1) performance from last year.

Second team all-IIAC performer as a freshman last year, Lauren Stillman is one of the players the Storm will rely on this season. When asked about her role, Stillman said, “I’m captain this year, so it’s really just to lead this team to a better season than we had last season.” Stillman started all 21 games last season and will be expected to do the same this year.

Simpson will have a chance to get in the win column back at Bill Buxton Stadium when they host Nebraska Wesleyan at 5 p.m. on Sept. 3^rd.