Team defense has been the key to success this season for the NIU women’s soccer team.

NIU currently ranks second in the MAC in goals allowed (15) and goals against average (.74). The Huskies also top the MAC with 10 shutouts.

“We’ve been pretty solid this year, even with the forwards getting back on defense,” said junior defender Jenna Clausen. “We’ve been working as a team.”

Goalkeeper Lindsey Curnock, who tied the NIU record with her eighth shutout Sunday, ranks second in the MAC in shutouts. The sophomore has posted 41 saves, while the Huskies have accumulated 54 saves as team.

The Huskies match up against Toledo, who held off Kent State to post a 4-3 first round victory, in the MAC tournament Friday.

In other MAC Tournament action, top-seeded Ball State defeated Miami 1-0 Sunday and will host the semifinals Friday and championship match Sunday in Muncie, Ind. The Cardinals will face Bowling Green, who topped Eastern Michigan 2-1 in overtime Sunday.