MOORHEAD, Minn. – The Gustavus Adolphus College men’s soccer team traveled northbound into cold and windy conditions on Wednesday afternoon and prevailed, as it earned a 3-1 victory over Concordia College at Jake Christiansen Stadium and Athletic Complex. The win improves the Gusties’ record to 8-5-3 overall and 2-4-3 in MIAC play, while the Cobbers fall to 4-13-0 overall and 2-8-0 in the MIAC.
“The lads played very well in difficult conditions,” said Coach Mike Middleton. “It was very cold and windy. It was great getting the win though, and well-deserved.”
Gustavus struck early, as first-year forward Arthur Parens (Wayzata, Minn.) netted an unassisted goal just two minutes into the game to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. However, that lead proved to be short-lived, as the Cobbers struck back less than six minutes later, with Sage Thornbrugh scoring Concordia’s first goal off assists from Nick Koerbitz and Matthew Fulks at the 7:15 mark. The score remained tied at 1-1 for a majority of the remainder of the half, but senior forward Eli Bjerk (Stillwater, Minn.) was able to score the game-winning goal for the Gusties at 37:45, to put the Black and Gold up 2-1 headed into the half.
Henry Brose (Jr., Hudson, Wis.) added the Gusties’ third goal 14:35 into the second half off an assist from Ian Smith (Fy., Amherst, N.H.).
“Eli Bjerk and Charlie Adams dominated the first half in particular, and Arthur Parens’ pace was a constant threat,” said Middleton. “John Fox came on in the second half, dominating the play defensively and standing tall, and Patrick Leach gave us another stellar performance at the back. Young first-years Jack Conroy and Davis Petros were also terrific, and goalkeeper Matt Bateman had to be strong in the second half with the wind – he certainly showed his mettle.”
Gustavus held a 14-5 advantage in shots taken, including a 9-3 mark on goal, and also led the Cobbers 8-5 in corner kicks. Matt Bateman (Fy., Savage, Minn.) earned the win in goal after making two saves and allowing one goal in 90 minutes of play. The rookie ‘keeper is now 3-2-2 on the season.
The Gusties will play in their final game of the 2015 season on Saturday when they welcome Hamline University to the Gustie Soccer Field. The game will also serve as Senior Day, and the team will recognize its 10 seniors for their contributions and accomplishments over the past four seasons.