Minneapolis, MN -- Thursday, the North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer team returned to Elliot Park Field for their first true home match of the season. The Rams went head-to-head with a Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) competitor in the Saint John's University (SJU) Johnnies. In the program's first-ever meeting, North Central battled through a physical and high-paced match that ultimately ended in a 7-0 decision.

The Rams opened the match with energy, generating an early look on goal just three minutes in from senior forward Alex Chacich, whose shot was turned away by the visiting goalkeeper. NCU followed with a corner kick shortly after, showing early signs of offensive intent. However, Saint John's responded quickly and capitalized on their opportunities, scoring in the 14th and 21st minutes to take a 2-0 lead. Freshman goalkeeper Derick Stevens was active throughout the half, recording four saves. Despite the Rams' defensive efforts and a handful of substitution rotations, the Johnnies added a third goal in the 31st minute to extend their lead. The half ended with a 3-0 scoreline, and a notable disparity in shots, as North Central was outshot 12-1 and trailed 5-1 in corner kicks.

After regrouping at halftime, the Rams continued to fight with resilience. North Central introduced several fresh legs early in the second half, but an early penalty kick conversion in the 50th minute made it 4-0. As the opponent maintained possession and kept pressure high, they netted three more goals in the 56th, 68th, and 76th minutes. Despite the deficit, NCU's goalkeepers held their ground. After 68 minutes in net, Derick Stevens handed keeper duties over to sophomore Trystin Procyk, who came on and delivered four saves in just over 20 minutes of action. Procyk denied multiple shots from close range, including two in quick succession during the final 10 minutes. Offensively, North Central added two more shots on goal in the second half, one each from junior forward Sam Thom and freshman defender Eddie Valencia, but both were stopped by the opposing keeper. By the final whistle, the Rams had been outshot 26-3, outcornered 13-1, and ultimately outscored 7-0. 

Quote from Head Coach, Keith Bleyer, on this afternoon's game: "I actually thought the first 15 minutes of this match we played the best soccer we have all season. We were showing great energy and unity and controlling play nicely with our ball movement and possession. Our commitment to playing the 'Ram Way' lapsed and we fell into a game that favored the opponent. Playing against all these strong opponents is about getting ready for conference play. This one hurts a lot, but my challenge to the guys is to use it as motivation and growth."
 
Looking Ahead:

Up next, the team will take on non-conference opponent Waldorf University at Elliot Park Field this Saturday, September 13th at 3:30pm. 

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