Minneapolis, MN -- North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer would face off against fellow NCCAA member Providence University College (PUC) in their home opener and first match of the season. On a rather steamy 90+ degree afternoon in Minneapolis, emotions were just as hot with the game totaling 7 yellow cards. The contest was tooth and nail until the very end, but the Blue and Gold were able to hold on to take the 2-1 victory. 

Things looked good early for the Rams, as sophomore Alex Chacich (Hibbing,MN) would cash in on a penalty kick goal in just the 7th minute of action to take an early lead. Chacich is coming off an impressive freshman campaign, where he led the team in goals, was tied for most points, and was awarded NCU Male Rookie of the Year. NCU would have plenty of chances to score as they had 8 shots on goal compared to the Pilots 4 in the first half of play. The Rams would make good on those opportunities again in the 31st minute when freshman Rodrigo Burgos found the back of the net off a beautiful feed from senior captain Elliott Lebsack (Kearney, NE). North Central would commit 10 total fouls in the first half, a theme that would continue into the last stages of the game. Even with the abundance of fouls, NCU would control all momentum, heading into the half with a 2-0 edge over PUC.

The Rams would keep the pressure on to begin the back half of this one. Providence would turn up their attack with a pair of shots on goal early on. In the 67th minute, the Rams would be called for a foul in the box allowing the Pilots to line up for their first penalty kick and first big chance to get on the board. However, senior goalkeeper Jerad Buse (Kearney, NE) would not be rattled. All of Elliot Park would erupt as Buse would stuff the Pilot PK attempt and fire up his squad. It was at this moment that emotions began to really heighten. Three total yellow cards would be handed out in a span of just 2 minutes, North Central being on the receiving end of two. It was in the 80th minute of play that the Providence Pilots would capitalize with a goal by first-year defender, Zach Harman. Competitiveness would only amplify, as four additional yellow cards would be administered. With scoring chances right until the final buzzer, the Pilots just could not find any luck getting another shot passed the Rams goalkeeper. Buse would have 6 total saves on the afternoon, and the Rams would chalk up the first game in the win column with the 2-1 victory. 

Today's box score can be found here. 

Looking Ahead:

The men return to Elliot Field next Tuesday to square off with Buena Vista at 4:30pm.

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on men's soccer and all things NCU Athletics.