ST. PETER, Minn. – The Gustavus men’s soccer team came back and defeated Martin Luther College 2-1 Wednesday evening in New Ulm, Minn. to stay undefeated with a 3-0 record.
The Knights broke the Gusties two-game shutout streak as they got on the board first at the 39th minute. Gustavus poured on the shots, totaling 16 compared to the Knights’ four in the first half and came through at the 43rd minute as Arthur Parens (Jr., Wayzata, Minn.) tallied his second goal of the season. Parens tied the game after receiving a pass from Matt Murakami (Sr., Eden Prairie, Minn.) and dribbling past the keeper for the goal.
Gustavus tilted the field in its favor in the second half, holding the advantage in shots, 17-4. Cody Billins (So., Farmington, Minn.) came through for the Black and Gold at the 63rd minute, notching the game-winner with an assist from Matt Ouren (Jr., North Mankato, Minn.). Parens led the Gusties with eight shots, with Ourens not far behind with seven.
“Good result, but a bit of a subdued performance,” said Head Coach Mike Middleton. “I have to give infinite credit to the opposition. They played very well, battling for every ball and working their socks off. We scored a couple of good goals, and created quite a few nice chances, and good teams find a way to win. Everyone is looking forward to the weekend to play two really good teams. There’s a lot to like about being 3-0 all on the road to start the season.”
The Gusties return to action Saturday afternoon as they host Luther College at 2 p.m. at Gustie Soccer Field.