ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Northwestern Men's Soccer team opened their 3-game week with a non-conference match against Hamline University. The Eagles were level after 45 minutes, but a late goal for HU gave them the 3-2 advantage over UNW.
In a physical battle down the road, the Pipers came out hot, scoring two quick goals in the 6th and 13th minutes. UNW had an early opportunity when
Joe Nyagaka (Bloomington, Minn./Jefferson) crossed a defender in the box, but his shot was saved. Nearly 10 minutes later, Nyagaka found the back of the net to give the Eagles new life.
Nathan Parker (Lino Lakes, Minn./Heritage Grace Academy) sent a leading ball upfield, allowing Nyagaka to chase it down, avoid a diving Piper defender, and beat the goalkeeper one-on-one for his second goal of the season.
Still trailing by one, Northwestern continued to pressure Hamline. In the 31st minute, Parker intercepted a pass deep in the Eagles' attacking third and immediately took a shot with his right foot. A Hamline defender blocked the attempt, but the ball stayed in play, allowing Parker to regain his footing and fire a left-footed shot past the keeper to level the score.
The second half consisted mostly of a midfield battle. Hamline had a chance at goal in the 74
th minute, but the close-range shot was stopped by the chest of
Isaac Johnson (Shoreview, Minn./Mounds View), who entered for
Georden Tschida (Circle Pines, Minn./Centennial) in the second half. After a back-and-forth 40 minutes, a Hamline cross broke through the middle in the 84
th minute and was kicked into the back of the net to give the Pipers the late advantage, eventually earning the 3-2 victory over UNW.
Nyagaka finished with 3 shots, 2 on target and a goal, while Parker collected his lone goal on one shot attempt.
Dutch Broughman (Eagle River, Alaska/Chugiak) also tallied 2 shots. In goal, Tschida finished with 7 saves and 2 goals allowed through the first half, and Johnson ended with 1 goal allowed and 2 saves.
The Eagles return in 24 hours to play UW-Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin, at 7:00 PM.
