EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Middle Tennessee women's soccer (5-3-2) secured a 2-0 victory over Evansville (4-2-1) on Sunday night at Arad McCutchan Stadium. 

The Blue Raiders struck first just under eight minutes into the match off an Evansville own goals. Later in the first half, forward Emma Pettersen extended the lead at 39:34 with a well-placed shot to the top center of the goal, assisted by senior Taijah Fraser. 

Middle Tennessee outshot Evansville 12-8 and capitalized on their chances with clinical precision. Goalkeeper Ella Sellers anchored the defense with two crucial saves, keeping Evansville off the scoreboard. 

Associate Head Coach Hannah Hoefs on using momentum heading into conference play: 
"It was important to feel confident about our performance leading into conference play. We knew a result would come if we played to our strengths and managed the game in the heat on a late Sunday matchup." 

By the numbers: 
Pettersen leads the team with four goals this season and continues to lead the nation in shot accuracy. 
Middle Tennessee has never lost in Evansville, holding a 4-0 all-time away record.

Up next: 
The Blue Raiders now shift their focus to their upcoming conference opener. Middle Tennessee opens conference play against Jacksonville State at 1 p.m. CT Sunday, Sept. 21, at Dean A. Hayes Track & Soccer Stadium.