EDMOND – Northeastern State vaulted themselves into the MIAA postseason chase with a stunning 2-1 upset at #5-ranked Central Oklahoma on Friday evening.  The Bronchos went into the contest undefeated in 16 contests and only four goals allowed all season. 

Looking outside inward to the postseason race, the RiverHawks (9-6-2, 3-5-2 MIAA) needed two wins this weekend, and some help to make the MIAA Tournament. 

The win over the 'Chos will pave a pathway for NSU to play on past Sunday's regular season finale.  Northeastern State is tied with Missouri Southern and Washburn for sixth place in the standings. 
Missouri Southern will head to Central Oklahoma, while Washburn travels to Fort Hays State.  The RiverHawks hosts Southwest Baptist who is already eliminated from postseason play.

Central Oklahoma led the RiverHawks for over 47 minutes after scoring midway through the first half off a rebound.   

A key moment Friday came in the 35th minute with Brennan Hockett stopping a UCO penalty kick to keep the Bronchos only a goal up.

Meagan Chase tied the game quickly out of the locker room in the 48th minute for the RiverHawks with a one-on-one breakaway for her fourth goal of the season. 

Similarly ten minutes later, lightning struck twice for NSU and Mariah Nicolet broke through the 'Chos defense and placed a kick right of the keeper for the eventual game winner.

Statistically UCO controlled the ball with a 22-to-8 shot advantage and they were up six-nil on corners. 

The win was the RiverHawks first over a team ranked inside the top-5 in the nation.   Northeastern State's previous best was on Oct. 18, 2015 over then ranked-#8 Central Missouri.

Sunday's regular season finale takes place at 1 p.m. with the RiverHawks honoring its senior prior to the contest.