Now sporting a .500 record, the ISU women’s soccer team hopes to finish off the tail-end of a busy nonconference stretch with two home victories. The Cyclones (2-2-1) bring a day’s rest into Friday’s game against South Dakota State and play Sunday afternoon against Colorado College.

After Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Iowa, the Cyclones had played three games in five days. Coach Rebecca Hornbacher said she didn’t think it should affect the team this weekend, however.

“The girls have done a good job taking care of their bodies,” Hornbacher said.

“When it comes down to it, they are prepared for this because of their training and preseason.”

The Cyclones don’t expect two pushovers this weekend. South Dakota State beat Northern Iowa last Friday, 2-1, and the Jackrabbits have won two of their first three games.

“South Dakota State is another great team,” said senior forward Amy Flores.

Colorado College is a perfect 4-0 so far this season. The Tigers shut out the Hawkeyes, 1-0, in their season opener. The Cyclones also have some momentum after their victory over Iowa.

“Our girls did what they wanted to do to get the W,” Hornbacher said. “Now we have to move forward and have more confidence. It is a good thing to build on going into our game Friday.”

— Luke Plansky