MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- After losing a pair of tight contests over the weekend, the North Central Men's Soccer team had little time to bounce back as they faced regional foes, Faith Baptist Bible College. But bounce back they did, defeating the Eagles by a score of 2-0, earning the team's first win of the season.

The Eagles came into the matchup ranked 5th in the National Christian College Athletic Association's Men's Soccer rankings, but that did not intimidate the Rams as they came out very strong, striking first in the ninth minute as sophomore forward, Steven Klapak (Kenosha, Wis. / Christian Life) was brought down in the box by an Eagle defender, earning a penalty kick. Sophomore midfielder, Tyler Maag (Warrensburg, Mo. / Lakeville South) stepped up to the spot and confidently struck home the opening goal.

The Eagles responded with some attacking play of their own, getting off eight shots by the end of the first half, but they were unable to completely breakdown the stout Rams' defense, giving the Rams a 1-0 lead going into the half.

In the second half, possesion turned more in the Rams favor, and in the 69th minute freshman midfielder, Jake Loukinen (Little Falls, Minn. / Little Falls) gave the Rams the insurance goal they deserved.

The goal came when a dangerous cross sent in by Tyler Maag was half cleared to the top of the box where Loukinen was positioned, and in one swift motion Loukinen settled the ball off his chest and buried the half-volley into the side netting, making the score 2-0.

For the final 20 minutes the Rams were able to hold off the Eagles, securing the victory and the ever important number one seed for the NCCAA North Central Region Tournament which will be played at the end of October.

It is a good feeling for the Rams as they look to build off this first win. Their first chance will come this weekend as they return to UMAC conference play on the road against Bethany Lutheran College and Crown College. They will kick off in Mankato on Friday night at 7:15 P.M.