The NIU women’s soccer team has a chance to redeem themselves as they begin MAC play at 5 p.m. today at Huskie Soccer Field against Buffalo.

After today’s game, the Huskies (1-2) continue the homestand, when they take on Southwest Missouri State University at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

Buffalo started the season ranked fifth in the conference by the MAC coaches, but have struggled to a 0-1-3 record.

NIU hasn’t fared much better. After opening the year with a 2-1 victory over Wright State, the Huskies failed to score in their last two games before starting their conference schedule.

“I think it’s an important game,” coach Frank Horvat said. “We need to get a good win at home, it is important for us in terms of what we have been working towards.”

The offense has failed to score a goal since Wright State, while the goalies have a combined 30 saves in 35 attempts.

Freshman Carrie Dvorak stepped in for a sick Leigh Steigerwald and stopped 11 shots for the Huskie victory. Steigerwald has saved 15-of-17 shots.

Steigerwald, a junior, only allowed two goals to Illinois State – a team that has routinely put up big numbers against the Huskies, including a 6-0 victory last season.

Although this is her first season at NIU, after transferring from East Carolina, Steigerwald has impressed the coaching staff after only a game and a half.

“From a coaching standpoint, none of us are surprised at her play,” Horvat said. “She definitely performed well last game, making some big saves and is definitely making her presence known. Also, it’s a big advantage to have a goal keeper that you feel real confident in.”

After this weekend, NIU will play four straight road games against MAC opponents, making the next two games increasingly important.

“Our game versus Buffalo is really crucial and it is important that we win and start off 1-0 in conference,” Steigerwald said. “Every win helps our chances because we are a young team. If we don’t win we just have to go out next weekend and go 2-0.”