New Ulm, MN -- The North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer team hit the road to take on the Knights of Martin Luther College (MLC) for the first time this season. MLC had won the last three meetings between these two teams coming into today's matchup. Today, North Central got after it early and didn't look back. Sensational freshman Sam Saye and senior Diego Zavala Varela both found the back of the net in the first half and the Rams were able to shut out the Knights to win 2-0. 

North Central went to work immediately ensuing the kickoff. Freshman Sam Saye missed on his first shot attempt of the game, but would hit his mark on the second. Sophomore Santiago Grams threaded the needle across the box to a streaking Saye who would finish off the highlight reel play with the Rams' first goal of the match. Sam Saye now has 4 goals on the year, which is third most by any freshman in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) this year. NCU kept knocking at the door as they totaled 13 shots in the first half. Eventually, Rody Cuate Torres sent a shot on goal that was turned away by the Knights' goalkeeper. NCU defender Diego Zavala Varela was sitting in perfect position for the rebound putback goal to give North Central a 2-0 lead that they would take to half. 

In the second half, the Knights were able to turn defense into offense as they limited the Rams to fewer opportunities, as well as created additional scoring opportunities. Martin Luther took 9 total shots, but one one would be on target. Freshman Peyton Carselowey stopped both shots on goal in tonight's game to pitch his second career shutout. Alvin Wlejleh (6) and Sam Saye (4) led the Rams offensively in total shots. This 2-0 win gives men's soccer their third UMAC win of the season, already surpassing last season's total. 

Today's box score can be found here.


Looking Ahead:

Men's Soccer hits the road once more with a game against Bethany Lutheran College this Saturday, October 12th. That game is slated for 1:00pm in Mankato, MN. 

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