The Gophers soccer team opened the 2010 non-conference schedule with the same foe that ended their 2008 NCAA tournament run in a Sweet Sixteen match. This time, No. 4 Notre Dame defeated Minnesota without the use of extra time, 1-0.

Melissa Henderson of the Fighting Irish netted the winner in the 78th minute of Friday night’s game at Alumni Soccer Stadium in South Bend, Ill.

Minnesota’s goalie Cat Parkhill had a strong showing, stopping seven of eight shots on goal against perennial contender Notre Dame. Parkhill is entering her sophomore year after being named Big Ten All-Rookie goalkeeper following her freshman season. Both teams had 15 shots.

It is the first time Minnesota has dropped a season opener since 2007. The Gophers resume the 2010 season Friday Aug. 27 at Vanderbilt, which marks the beginning of a three-game road trip.