LISLE, Ill. — The Concordia University Wisconsin men's soccer team battled throughout 90 minutes on Wednesday evening but ultimately fell 2-1 to Benedictine University in a Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) matchup at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex.
The Falcons created opportunities early, with Samuel Ortiz, Jonah Kinsey and
Jamal Kilimila each recording shots in the opening minutes. Benedictine broke through in the 14th minute when Krystof Cicha found the back of the net to give the Eagles a 1-0 advantage.
CUW continued to pressure the Benedictine defense and eventually found the equalizer late in the opening period. In the 43rd minute, Eli Stone scored his first goal of the match off an assist from Hayden Bumgarner, bringing the contest level at 1-1 heading into halftime.
The Falcons carried their offensive pressure into the second half, with Kilimila, Kinsey and
Junior Omary all creating chances. Benedictine regained the lead in the 58th minute when the Eagles found the back of the next, putting the themselves ahead 2-1.
CUW continued to push for the equalizer throughout the remainder of the match. Stone recorded several opportunities, while
Jahsiah Acosta,
Matthew Payne,
Grant Stald and Omary each tested Benedictine goalkeeper.
The Falcons finished the match with 20 shots, including 10 on goal. Stone led CUW with four shots and three shots on goal, while Omary also recorded four shots. Connor Fitch made four saves in goal for the Falcons.
Despite the late offensive pressure, CUW was unable to find the equalizer as Benedictine secured the 2-1 NACC victory.
The Falcons return to action looking to bounce back Saturday, September 19 against Wisconsin Lutheran.
