The ISU women’s soccer team has a big problem to fix and only one nonconference game left to straighten things out.

Nine goals scored out of 105 shots taken through nine games – the scoring just hasn’t been there for the Cyclones (3-6 overall).

With the Big 12 season kicking off Sunday, Iowa State needs some sort of breakthrough Wednesday against North Dakota State.

A win would end a three-game losing streak and help rid the team of any lingering disappointment from a disheartening stretch of the season.

“This weekend was kind of disappointing for all of us,” said senior defender Kate Kirwan, “but we have to move on.”

Sitting at .500, the Cyclones lost to Iowa last Wednesday in overtime, 1-0, then dropped both games of the Colorado College Invitational last weekend, losing to the Weber State Wildcats, 4-1, and the tournament host Colorado College Tigers, 1-0.

Iowa State is looking to right the ship tonight against the Bison.

In their six losses, the Cyclones have been shutout four times. The Cyclones began last season with similar offensive struggles.

In 2005, the Cyclones offense scored two goals in its first five games before the offense shaped up and scored seven goals in its next four games. The 2005 team went on to recover and qualify for its first-ever NCAA Tournament.

The 2006 team, however, has yet to turn the corner offensively.

“We’re looking to come out with a lot of energy and put together a full 90 minutes,” Kirwan said. “As long as people are giving their best effort, as long as people are trying, there isn’t a whole lot more we can do.”

The Cyclones have been outscored 24-9 this season – a number skewed by a 9-0, season-opening loss to now top-ranked Notre Dame.

North Dakota State comes to town with a 3-2-1 record. The Bison share several of the same early season losses as the Cyclones, falling to Minnesota and Drake.

They played to a scoreless tie with Weber State, who beat Iowa State, 4-1, last weekend.

Iowa State has played six of its last seven games on the road.

“It’s great to sleep in our own bed for more than three days,” Kirwan said.

Kickoff at the ISU Soccer Complex is scheduled for 7 p.m. The first 120 students will get free food by showing their student IDs.

Video of the game will be broadcast live online at Cyclones.com.