Mankato, MN – Saturday, the North Central University (NCU) men's soccer team made the trip south to take on a strong Bethany Lutheran College (BLC) side in Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) play. Facing a program that entered the day on a five-game win streak and sitting second in the league standings, the Rams stood tall defensively and showcased their growth as a unit. Despite the 1-0 scoreline, NCU battled through all 90 minutes, displaying poise, structure, and resilience against one of the conference's top attacks.

From the opening whistle, North Central came ready to compete. The Rams controlled early spells of possession through the midfield trio of Francisco Ramirez, Rodrigo Burgos, and Ulrich Mvogo, who helped NCU build out of the back and relieve pressure. In the 10th minute, junior Santiago Grams nearly gave the Rams an early lead with a well-struck shot from distance that forced a diving save. Freshman forward Steven Griffith stayed active up front, creating two more chances midway through the half, including one that curled just wide of the post. NCU's best sequence of the opening frame came in the 21st minute when consecutive corner kicks created back-to-back scoring opportunities. Samuel Tivane Jr. and Burgos both found looks inside the box, but their efforts were deflected by a crowded defense. The Rams continued to press high and defend collectively until a late first-half penalty in the 39th minute gave BLC the lead. Even after the setback, North Central's energy didn't waver. Freshman goalkeeper Derick Stevens turned away multiple close-range shots, including an acrobatic double save in the 35th minute that drew praise from both sidelines. His steady command kept the Rams within striking distance heading into halftime.

After the break, North Central tightened its defensive shape and continued to frustrate the home attack. Stevens picked up right where he left off, making a full-extension save in the 47th minute to deny what looked to be a sure goal. Anchored by veterans Gerald Nolasco and Wilfredo Chavez along the back line, the Rams blocked shots, tracked runners, and communicated effectively to hold their opponent scoreless for the remainder of the match. Offensively, the Rams continued to seek an equalizer, with Grams and Christian Longo-Schumer linking up to generate movement in the attacking third. Late substitutes Alex Chacich and Elmer Polio Silva provided fresh legs in the closing minutes, helping NCU win a late corner kick opportunity in the 78th minute. Despite several well-built sequences, the Rams couldn't quite find the final touch but finished the game with determination and heart. Stevens ended the afternoon with five impressive saves, marking one of his most composed performances of the season. North Central held their own statistically as well, matching BLC in corner kicks and staying disciplined throughout the match. Against one of the UMAC's top offensive units, the Rams showcased clear defensive improvement and a team-first mentality that continues to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.

Looking Ahead:

Up next, men's soccer returns home to Elliot Park Field for Senior Day on Wednesday, October 29th, as they host the University of Minnesota Morris. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM.

As always, 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.