MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Morris men's soccer team won its 10th game of the season Wednesday afternoon, defeating North Central University 3-1 in Upper Midwest Athletic Conference play in Minneapolis, Minn.
The Cougars improve to 10-5-2 overall and 7-3-1 in the UMAC, while the Rams drop to 5-14 overall and 4-7 in conference play. This marks the first time since the 2017 season that Minnesota Morris has won 10 or more games.
It did not take long for the Cougars to strike.
Jean-Patrick Koko sent a cross into the box that found the foot of
Luis Mendez. Mendez's first shot was saved, but he collected the rebound and scored in the second minute. After that opening sequence, UMM was unable to generate many quality scoring chances in the first half. The Rams drew level in the 26th minute. Seconds after the NCU goal,
Nehemiah Zappetta put a shot on goal that was saved.
Dutch Bullock made five more saves for the remainder of the half, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
Bullock was tested early in the second half, making his first save just two minutes after the break.
Jake Anargyros fired several shots toward goal but could not put UMM back in front. With 20 minutes remaining,
Patrick Bednarczyk sent a ball into the box that
Charlie Adams was able to corral and slip past the goalkeeper to give the Cougars the lead. UMM capitalized on another loose ball in the box, with Anargyros getting to it and sealing the 3-1 victory for the Cougars.
Minnesota Morris recorded 11 shots, including seven on goal. Adams scored his team-leading sixth goal of the season, while Mendez and Anargyros each scored their fifth goals of the year. Anargyros led the Cougars with five shots, three of which were on target. Bullock made 10 saves in the win.
Zander Kuhfeld entered the game for the final six minutes but did not face a shot.
The Cougars conclude the regular season on Saturday when they host the University of Northwestern at 1 p.m.
