Superior, WI – On Wednesday evening, the North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer team officially kicked off its Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) schedule on the road against conference foe University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS). The Rams faced a tough test against a Yellowjacket squad that captured last year's conference title and came into the match-up looking to defend their home turf. Despite showing stretches of composure and fight throughout the contest, NCU was unable to slow down Superior's attack and came up short in a 4-0 result.

North Central looked sharp in the early minutes, creating pressure in the attacking third. Junior midfielder Santiago Grams nearly broke through in the fifth minute with a shot on target, forcing the Superior goalkeeper into action. The Rams kept their shape well and pushed forward with a pair of corner kicks midway through the half, but Superior was able to capitalize on its chances. Two goals in the final twenty minutes of the half shifted the momentum, and North Central entered the break down 2-0 despite showing flashes of control in possession.

After regrouping at halftime, the Rams came out with urgency. Burgos tested the defense with a low strike in the 68th minute to record NCU's only shot of the second half. Freshmen forwards Christian Longo-Schumer and Darius Knox injected energy into the attack with their pace. Senior forward Alex Chacich worked to create runs behind the defense, keeping Superior honest on the back line. The Yellowjackets extended their lead with two quick goals shortly after the restart, but the Rams continued to press in search of an answer. Freshman goalkeeper Derick Stevens stood tall between the posts, finishing the night with 7 saves against a relentless 34-shot effort from UWS. North Central was unable to generate enough offensive opportunities, being out shot 34-2 and trailing 10–2 in corner kicks. NCU was handed its first conference loss of the season. 
.
Looking Ahead:

The Rams will continue UMAC play on the road versus Martin Luther College this Saturday, September 20 at 2:00 PM.

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.