Winona, MN – The North Central University (NCU) Men's Soccer team traveled to Winona for a non-conference matchup with the Saint Mary's University (SMU) Cardinals. Saint Mary's has won all previous meetings, with the Rams still searching for their first breakthrough result in the series. Despite a determined effort and some bright individual performances, NCU fell 5-0 in a match where shot totals told the story. The Rams were limited to six total attempts with just one on frame, while their opponent racked up 24 shots and 15 on target.
The opening 45 minutes saw North Central fight hard to keep the game even. Goalkeeper Trystin Procyk was immediately called into action, making multiple saves within the first 15 minutes to keep the Rams level. Captain Ricardo Vera Martinez generated the best chance of the half for NCU in the 26th minute, forcing the opposing keeper into a stop on a low strike. The Rams also created pressure from set pieces, earning four corners before halftime, though they could not convert any into scoring opportunities. Thanks to steady defending and Procyk's three first-half saves, NCU entered the break still even on the scoreboard.
The second half opened with a surge from the hosts, who quickly broke the deadlock in the 47th minute and added two more goals before the 51st minute. The Rams tried to respond with chances of their own, including efforts from Steven Griffith and Kefeyen Tita, but both went just off target. Michael Dagher also tested the defense with a look in the 66th minute, but again, NCU could not find the net. As the half wore on, Procyk remained busy between the posts, adding five more saves before giving way to freshman Owen Ellefson in the 71st minute. Ellefson was immediately tested and came up with a strong stop in the 79th minute, showing poise in relief. Despite the defensive work, the opposition tacked on two more goals late to seal the result at 5-0.
Looking Ahead:
Up next, North Central will continue UMAC play where they are set to face Bethany Lutheran College on Saturday, September 27th. The game will kickoff at 2:00 PM at Elliot Park Field in Minneapolis.
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