ST. PAUL, Minn. – Alex Wilson (Sr., Ashland, Wis.) scored in the first overtime period to lead the Gustavus men’s soccer team to a 1-0 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference victory at Hamline University Tuesday afternoon.
“Great win today,” said Head Coach Mike Middleton. “The lads really showed character. The conditions were awful with strong wind, a bumpy pitch and was miserably cold.”
Wilson scored his third goal of the season at the 99th minute, heading in the game-winner off a pass from Matt Gibbons (Fy., Minneapolis, Minn.) to improve the Gusties record to 12-5 overall and 6-3 in the MIAC. Gibbons leads the Black and Gold with six assists on the season.
“What a winning goal – beautiful control by Matt Gibbons, who proceeded to beat his man and put a lovely ball into the near post. A stunning diving header by Alex Wilson, saw the ball flash past the keeper into the back of the net – a wonderfully crafted goal,” said Middleton.
Gustavus outshot the Pipers 10-9 and led 5-1 in corner kick opportunities. Gibbons led the Gusties with four shots. Goalkeeper Matt Bateman (Jr., Savage, Minn.) tallied six saves to record his fifth shutout of the season.
The Black and Gold close out the regular season at Gustie Soccer Field Saturday afternoon, hosting Macalester College at 1 p.m.
“In truth the game was not one for the connoisseur today. It was a game to display heart, drive and determination – and the lads showed those traits in spades. A fantastic win,” Middleton concluded.