Dakota Fusion FC came away with a 2–1 victory at Sioux Falls Thunder FC on Saturday in NPSL action, with an early own goal from N. Naus and a 20th-minute strike from N. North proving enough despite a late Sioux Falls consolation from K. Green in the 90th minute.

The match was barely four minutes old when the cards started flying, with Dakota Fusion's C. Burke picking up a yellow. The visitors took the lead just minutes later when Naus put through his own net in the eighth minute, an unfortunate start for the hosts. Dakota Fusion's T. Dobson was booked in the 16th minute, but the away side kept pushing forward regardless. North doubled the Fusion's advantage in the 20th minute, and suddenly Sioux Falls had a mountain to climb.

The second half brought frustration more than quality for the home side. As the clock wound down, tempers frayed. Dakota Fusion's T. Nour was cautioned in the 79th minute, followed a minute later by Sioux Falls' M. Davidsen. A. Schmidt joined him in the book in the 85th minute as Thunder FC's desperation grew.

Green finally broke through for Sioux Falls in the 90th minute to cut the deficit in half, but it was far too late to mount a comeback. Dakota Fusion's E. Glissendorf picked up a yellow in stoppage time — the sixth booking of a feisty contest — as the visitors saw out the result.

The win gives Dakota Fusion a valuable three points on the road and leaves Sioux Falls searching for answers after failing to respond until the final whistle was nearly upon them.