Oct. 14, 2012
Final Stats | Box Score 
CHICAGO - The Ramblers returned to Loyola Soccer Park in winning fashion on Saturday night, as they earned their first conference win of the season against Green Bay, 1-0. Freshman Jake Savino scored his second goal this week, posting a low shot 10 yards out in the fourth minute to score the game-winner for Loyola University Chicago.
At the starting whistle, Loyola showed it had a point to prove with the Ramblers dominating the first twenty minutes of the game, generating a strong offensive edge through set piece opportunities. Four minutes into the match, Savino took a shot from 10 yards out, sending the ball between the posts and past Green Bay goalkeeper Ryan Wehking. The goal gave Loyola its first 1-0 lead since playing IPFW on Sept. 14.
Sophomore Andrew Raymonds and freshman Ryan Howe also challenged Wehking in the first half, collectively posting four of the team's five shots on goal. The Phoenix attempted to answer back, pressuring the Rambler defense late in the half, but a solid backline and outstanding play by senior goalkeeper Peter McKeown reaffirmed Loyola's 1-0 lead heading into the break.
It was a defensive battle for both teams after the intermission with the Ramblers working to collect a shutout against the Phoenix. McKeown directed the Loyola defense all night, helping to lock down Green Bay and preserve the Rambler's lead.
Savino continued to jump start the offense, setting up plays and moving the ball down the field, feeding crosses into the center. Sophomore Brian Bement had three consecutive shots for the Ramblers, starting in the 60th minute with a hard shot saved by Wehking.
Junior James Howe sparked Loyola up top, creating several scoring opportunities late in the game. Howe gave the Rambler's one last chance at extending their lead in the 86th minute, powering a shot towards the net with a Green Bay defender making the block.
The early goal and an unwavering focus from Loyola allowed the team to control the match and seal the 1-0 win, as McKeown earned his third shutout of the season. The Ramblers improve to a 1-1-2 conference record as they prepare for a nonconference match against Northwestern on Wednesday, Oct. 17. The game will be held at Loyola Soccer Park with kickoff set for 7 p.m.
