Playing the program's first home NCAA playoff game in 17 seasons, No. 19-ranked Tommie Women's Soccer used Paige Cater's goal in the 52th minute and a solid defense to eliminate Monmouth (Ill.), 1-0, Saturday at South Field.
On Sunday at 1 p.m., St. Thomas will face Illinois Wesleyan, a 2-1 overtime winner Saturday over UW-Whitewater. The Titans, who edged St. Thomas 2-1 on a neutral field in September, have won 10 in a row.
The Tommies (16-2-3) pushed their unbeaten streak to 14 games (11-0-3), and also recorded their 13th shutout of the season.
Coach Sheila McGill's team has allowed just four goals in their last 14 games.
The Scots (14-5-2) were playing their first NCAA playoff game in the program's 26-year history. They hung around and made it a 90-minute game despite huge stat advantages by the Purple in corner kicks (12-0) and shots (15-2).
Sarah Pasternak had two saves in goal for the Toms, and Kate Heimer and Elizabeth Luotto assisted on Cater's goal.
St. Thomas is 16-0-1 in games on her career when Cater scores a goal or an assist.