Northern Kentucky jumped out to a fast start on offense. In the 6th minute of the game, defender Oliver Eckhardt scored his first goal of his Norse career to give the Norse a 1-0 lead. 

NKU’s defense was able to hold off Cleveland in the first half, but the Norse were unable to extend their lead despite outshooting the Vikings 7-3. Norse goalie Alex Kron had a crucial save in the 23rd minute, leaving the Norse up 1-0 at halftime. 

After the break, Cleveland State quickly gained control, improving on both their offense and defense. The Vikings had three shots in the first five minutes of the second half, matching their first-half output. 

In the 68th minute, Vikings midfielder Tom Mertz converted one of his four shots into a goal, leveling the game 1-1. 

Both teams battled aggressively for the lead throughout the match as they combined for 18 fouls and five yellow cards. Despite the Norse’s effort, Cleveland State held them to just two shots in the second half, leaving the Norse unable to regain the lead as the match ended in a one-all draw. 

The Vikings outnumbered the Norse in corners 5-2 throughout the match and 12-9 on shots. 

Steven Boaghe Braniste led the Norse in shots with two, including one on goal. 

The Norse moved to 2-4-3 on the year and 0-1-2 in Horizon League Play.