Kearney, Neb. - The Nebraska-Kearney women's soccer team will make its first-ever trip to Grand Junction, Colo., this weekend and then face one of Division II's best squads on Sunday. 

The Lopers (2-2) final year in the RMAC begins Friday at 5:00 p.m. Central against the Colorado Mesa Mavericks (1-3) in Grand Junction. In UNK's first two years as a program, Mesa has come to Kearney twice.

Two days later, Kearney heads to Durango, Colo., to face the 3rd-ranked Fort Lewis Skyhawks (3-0-1) at 2:00 p.m. Central. FLC went 18-3-2 last season and advanced to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.

Loper fans can follow both games via live stats. Also, the Fort Lewis game can be watched live via America One; charges do apply.

The newly named Colorado Mesa (formerly known as Mesa State) Mavs are off to a 1-3 start. They beat Dixie State of Utah, 1-0, but have been outscored 6-1 in the three other games.

Junior midfielder Kelci Crispe and freshman Daniela Salinas lead the team in shots while a two keeper system features senior Arielle Harris (1-2, 1.33 GAA).

Last year at Ron & Carol Cope Stadium, UNK posted a 2-1 win over Mesa despite being out shot 18-8.

Fort Lewis out scored its first three opponents 9-2 but was tied by Grand Canyon (Ariz.), 2-2, last weekend.

A very experienced and balanced team features RMAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Madyson Wellcome and senior forward Hayley Hollenga (seven points).

UNK almost pulled off the biggest win in school history last fall when the Lopers led FLC 1-0 with less than a minute remaining. However, FLC tied the game off a corner kick and then Hollenga scored the winning goal in OT off another corner.

Two years ago in Durango, FLC beat the Lopers, 4-0.

UNK is currently being led by sophomore Raliegh Mercer (11 shots, two goals) and senior Morgan Abert (two goals) on offense with junior keeper Marissa Niday (Fremont) having 19 saves and a 1.50 GAA.

Next week, the Lopers return home to face Colorado Christian and Colorado State-Pueblo