Storm Lake, IA -- North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer began their season today as they traveled to Iowa to face off with the Buena Vista University (BVU) Beavers. Last season, these teams met early in the year at Elliot Park Field, with the Rams winning 2-0 in Minneapolis. Tonight, it was a tail of two halves as the Rams forfeited their first-half lead to the Beavers' who went on to win 3-1 in a heated affair. 

The first half was rather even on each side. Both teams totaled 4 shots, 3 on-goal for NCU and 2 on-goal for BVU. In the 24th minute, sophomore Rodrigo Burgos found the back of the net off a right-footed strike to take the first lead of the game at 1-0. The teams battled it out in an aggressive first half that saw a total of 10 fouls committed. After the first 45 minutes, the Rams still held on to their 1-0 lead.

The second half was a different story as Buena Vista went on the attack early. In the 67th minute, the Beavers tied the game at 1-1 with their first goal of the game. Just five minutes later, Buena Vista scored again to take the lead, this time off a freekick attempt. Working to put the game on ice, BVU found the back of the net once more in the 75th minute. North Central struggled offensively as they could only get off 2 shots to the Beavers' 9 total shots in the second half. Tensions grew throughout the half, as there were 16 fouls and 10 total yellow cards handed out. Buena Vista went on to win 3-1. Freshman goalkeeper Peyton Carselowey recorded 3 saves in his first collegiate start. 

Today's box score can be found here.

Looking Ahead:

The men will hold their home opener this Saturday as they take on Faith Baptist Bible College at 3:30pm.

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.