PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Rutgers women's soccer drew Michigan State by a score of 1-1 in its Big Ten opener on Friday at Yurcak Field.

Nata Ramirez gave the Scarlet Knights (2-0-4, 0-0-1) the early advantage in the first half, but the Spartans (3-2-3. 0-0-1) equalized in the second half to earn a point. 

The first 15 minutes saw limited action, with MSU holding possession and RU looking for a counterattack. The hosts got what they were looking for just a few minutes later. After a pass from Michigan State's goalkeeper fell short of its target, Ramirez pounced on the ball and one-timed it into the net for her second goal of the season, giving Rutgers a 1-0 lead 18 minutes in. 

While Olivia Russomanno was stuffed on a last-second breakaway to end the half, RU kept applying pressure looking for a second. 

The Scarlet Knights added three shots on goal early in the second half, but all were saved. After an RU clearance on a dangerous cross, the Spartans equalized in the 67th minute. 

While MSU kept applying pressure late in the match, the visitors were unable to find a winner and the teams settled for a draw. 

Rutgers is back in action on Thursday night at Minnesota, with kickoff set for 8 p.m. against the Golden Gophers. 
 

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