Box Score

Game Vitals

• The Rams hold their 4th straight opponent to 1 or fewer goals.
• Teams have scored a combined four goals in five NCCAA tournament games.
• Rams advance to the NCCAA National Tournament Championship game for the first time since 2016 (Finished as Runners-Up to Bob Jones)

Game Recap

• North Central University entered their final game of pool play poised to earn their way into the National Championship game. The Rams were able to take control of the game early as Austin Healy was able to find the back of the net in the in the 9th minute of the contest. The early goal continued to feed the defense's confidence as they continued their impressive tenacity, which they have shown throughout the whole postseason keeping Bob Jones offensive at bay for a majority of the first half. The Bruins were able to create a few opportunities, but the Rams were able to hold them scoreless, taking a 1-0 lead into the break. The defensive mantra continued in the second period for NCU as they continued to push the pace on offense. The Rams added an insurance goal to their lead in the in the 69th minute thanks to the foot of Henry Puchuela which pushed the Ram's lead to 2-0. Bob Jones refused to go away as they were able to answer just a few minutes later as they cut the lead to one goal in the 75th minute. The goal for the Bruins proved to be too little, too late, as the Rams were able to maintain their lead for the rest of the contest as NCU was able to punch their ticket to the NCCAA National Championship game.

Key Performers

• Austin Healy - 1 goal
• Henry Puchuela - 1 goal

Next Up

• North Central University will look to end their 2018 season on a high note this Saturday as they prep for the NCCAA National Championship game. The Rams will run up against the winner of Pool B, Kentucky Christian, who won their pool with a 1-0-1 record. Kickoff for Saturday's Title game is set for 4:00 p.m. (CT).

MEDIA: If you need further information, please feel free to contact Justin Brown at 612-343-3539 or email Jdbrown@northcentral.edu.