By JEFF WINDMUELLER Independent Record

Carroll College's Rachael Lowe kicked in a deflected shot late in the first period as the Saints outscored the Grizzlies 1-0 in a preseason exhibition for both teams Saturday in Nelson Stadium.

An experienced Saints squad, which returned 18 players and six starters, dominated an injury-riddled Griz team throughout the first two 30-minute periods.

Lowe's goal came after a number of strong attacks and after Tayt Ellison picked up a rebound on an earlier shot attempt, crossing the ball to Lowe on the left side of the goalie box.

Lowe had enough time to step into the shot, which she aimed to the far post away from Montana goalie Julianna Jack, but would pass by her outstretched glove after ricocheting off a defender's upper body.

"I think Tayt was the one who passed me the ball and she looked up and we just kind of made eye contact," Lowe said."I was aiming far post, so if it hadn't been deflected it still had a chance to go in. We'll never know."

The goal, which came in the 24th minute, was a result of the Saints' new emphasis on strong ball control instead of the long passes and outside runs that they preferred to score on last season.

"The big difference from last year, (former forward) Hannah Young was just such a gifted athlete, sometimes you could spit a ball up there and she could run through things," said Saints head coach Dave Thorvilson. "We've been constantly trying to focus this preseason on our system of play, and finding combinations and putting numbers through.

"(We're) trying to find as much advantage through possession and counterpossession as possible. It was nice to see today."