Aurora 2’s Season Ends with 2-1 Loss in UPSL Conference Finals

Eagan, MN – July 14, 2024 – Aurora 2 fell 2-1 in the UPSL Midwest West Conference Finals to NOSC Blast at TCO stadium on Sunday, July 14th. The team went undefeated in the regular season and defeated Superior City FC in the Conference Semifinals. Aurora 2 ends its first season with a 11-1-2 record. 

Ava Westlund opened the scoring in the 34th minute. Maya Dempsey crossed the ball into the box and Westlund finished the ball with a one-touch into the goal.

Blast equalized with a free kick in the 45+2 minute, scored by Jessica Eischens.

The second half passed scoreless, with Aurora and Blast matching each other step-for-step. Bayliss Flynn made a number of critical saves, including a one v. one shot that she deflected in the 67th minute.

Still 1-1 at 90 minutes, the game was forced into two 15 minute overtime periods. In the 115th minute, Blast earned a free kick, which Berit Parton buried.

“We didn’t come out with the result that we wanted, but it’s a really good foundation to build forward. I couldn’t be more proud of the coaching staff, but especially the players,” said Head Coach Mandy Pochobradsky. “They’ve showed tremendous bravery in everything that they’ve done this season and their willingness to take what we’ve asked of them and to implement it and run with it and adapt to it has been fantastic.”

“Our success just shows Aurora through and through. There’s a standard of excellence,” said goalkeeper Bayliss Flynn. “A whole new coaching staff, which has been such a smooth transition. The players they’ve brought in this year, on both the first team and second team, we all meshed together really well.” 

About Minnesota Aurora FC 

Minnesota Aurora FC is a pre-professional women’s soccer club in Minnesota. Aurora is community-owned and values-led, with a mission of developing the next generation of women’s talent both on and off the field. As part of Minnesota Aurora FC’s commitment to fostering talent and nurturing young players, Aurora 2 provides a platform for emerging athletes to showcase their skills and develop within a highly competitive soccer environment. For more information, visit MNAurora.com or follow Aurora 2 on Twitter: @mnaurorafc2.