By By SCOTT NOVAK / Niles Daily Star
DOWAGIAC- A goal by Niles' Tea Murphy with just over 26 minutes remaining in the opening half was all the visiting Vikings needed to edge Dowagiac in a Big 16 Conference West Division match, 1-0.
While Niles had plenty of opportunities to score, it was the Vikings' defense that made the difference against the Chieftains.
Niles (3-2-1, 1-1 SMAC) held Dowagiac to just seven shots on goal.
Dowagiac coach Mike Williams noted that his team has been struggling offensively, but have come a long way from the beginning of the year.
Niles fired off 34 shots at Dowagiac keeper Jackie Sayre. Sayre was credited with 10 saves.
Peters felt that her team had the better of the opportunities, but couldn't get the ball in the back of the net.
Niles keeper Rebecca Teske didn't have to make a save in the match.
Murphy's goal came on a cross from Lacey Wiemuth.
Dowagiac, which already has several starters on the bench with injuries, suffered another one in the second half Monday night.
Danielle Stanton collided with Murphy with the two butting heads.
It is unknown if Stanton will play on Wednesday against Lakeshore. Williams said it hopes to have first-year player Lisa Rubino back on for the Lady Lancers.
Rubino has been out with an knee injury.
Niles will return to the field on Wednesday when they host St. Joseph. Game time is set for 5 p.m.