MINNEAPOLS – The North Central University men's soccer team [2-4-2, 0-3-2 UMAC] took on the University of Minnesota Morris [4-4-1, 2-2-1 UMAC] in an Upper Midwest Athletic Conference matchup on Homecoming Saturday. The Rams came up short, 3-0, to the visiting Cougars.
NCU came out with energy in the first half with two shots on goal, forcing Morris keeper Cody Christ to come up with the saves. The contest stayed tight until the Cougars found the net on two consecutive goals in the 27th and 28th minute to go up 2-0, a score that remained going into halftime.
In the second half, North Central did not look to give up the fight, putting five shots on goal, but Christ's play thwarted their attempts to find the back of the net. Another goal from Morris in 62nd minute put the game out of reach going up 3-0.
Danny Williams and Josué Boutouli led the Rams offensive attacking, both registering four shots and three shots on goal each. Gabe Hartwig came away with six saves on nine shots on goal. Although North Central out shot Minnesota Morris 15 to 10 and corners seven to one, the Cougars made the most of their nine shots on goal compared to the Rams seven.
NCU will return to the pitch Tuesday, October 3 as they play host to UMAC opponent, Martin Luther College [4-4, 3-0 UMAC]. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.
