Nick Kieser works to keep the ball away from St. Thomas's Pierce Erickson in Saturday's 1-0 win. Photo courtesy of CJ Siewert - Sport PiX.
St. Peter, Minn. – Thanks to a goal by Zach Brown (Sr., Eau Claire, Wis.) in the 75th minute, the Gustavus Adolphus men’s soccer team was able to earn a 1-0 victory over the University of St. Thomas and pick up a crucial three points in the conference standings. Gustavus improves to 10-3-1 overall and 4-1-1 in the MIAC, while St. Thomas drops to 8-5-1 overall and 3-2-1 in the MIAC.
“Very good performance and an excellent results for the lads today,” said Head Coach Mike Middleotn. “I thought we looked threatening in possession throughout the game and created a number of good chances on the break. Credit to St. Thomas who looked good in possession and presented us with some food for thought.”
Although Gustavus outshot the Tommies 6-0 in the first half and 7-2 in the second, Brown’s strike, which came from a Patrick Roth (So., Stillwater, Minn.), at the 74:40 proved to be the only goal needed. The goal by Brown is his fifth game-winner and 10th of the season.
“We dominated the midfield throughout the contest with David Lilly and Charlie Adams setting themselves apart once again. They are the most dominant central midfield combination in the region and dovetailed nicely once again,” Middleton said. “The tactical nous of Eli Bjerk in particular showed through – he’s so clever in possession, rarely losing the ball and is astute enough to pick up some lovely positions. Given that Zach Brown checked very nicely, constantly linking up the play with the midfield, Eli was smart enough to recognize when to create space for Zach and when to support.”
Charlie Adams challenges for a header. Photo courtesy of CJ Siewert – Sport PiX.
“Our all-American and MIAC MVP Zach Brown not only scored the game winning goal on put through by Patrick Roth, but he also added work-rate and guile in possession today,” said Middleton about the game-winner. “He really showed his game knowledge and experience, leading by example once again. At times Zach is a step in front,and too mentally sharp for the opposition. He’s really showing some good form at the moment and with that work-rate isn’t looking like he wants to relinquish that individual crown.”
Braden Schmid (Sr., West Fargo, N.D.) made one save on the way to his third complete-match shutout of the season. St. Thomas goalkeeper Mitchell Koehler suffered the loss in a two-save effort.
“Once again the defense proved to be very solid with man-mountain Patrick Leach as steady as the rock of Gibraltar,” Middleton said about his club’s defensive effort. “He’s quick, big and he bites. You wouldn’t want to play against him, well not without pads, helmet and all the accouterments of our erstwhile grid-iron friends. Alongside Patrick was the ever vigilant Elliot Emerson – so sharp he could cut himself.”
“Behind the back line Braden Schmid gave another accomplished performance in the nets” added Middleton. “He has an air of confidence around him that spreads to the defense. He’s very good at collecting crosses and commands his penalty box. Another nice performance from him.”
The Gusties generated seven corner kick opportunities compared to St. Thomas’s five.
The Gustavus men’s soccer team will be back in action on Saturday, Oc. 18 when it heads to St. Paul for a 1:00 p.m. match against Macalester College.
“A terrific result against a good team and a thoroughly enjoyable day for all,” Middleton concluded. “Lots of alums back for the alumni game after as well, which was great to see on such a lovely sunny. The lads giving their all and playing with skill, pizzazz and a good deal of talent – nothing not to like there! A day off tomorrow and a very well deserved day-off on Monday – Christmas for the lads comes earlier every year!”