In Short
The Loyola University Chicago men's soccer team captured their fourth straight win as they defeated UIC, 3-1 tonight at Loyola Soccer Park. The Ramblers topped all three Chicago teams this season with additional wins over DePaul and Northwestern. Loyola moves to 8-3-1, (3-1-1 MVC) this season with the non-conference conclusion over the Flames.
Coach Neil Jones Thoughts
"It's always a goal of ours every single season to be the best team in Chicago," Jones said. "There's three other very good teams here in this city that we always battle with in many ways. I'm very pleased with the performance tonight, just very proud of the guys. I thought it was a great team effort both offensively and defensively, defensively especially in the second half. UIC is a very good attacking team and is a very good team, period."
How It Happened
It was an all-out defensive battle for both teams, as they combined for just 13 shots. The Ramblers shut down UIC, only allowing them two shots on goal. The Flames entered the match leading the nation in shots per game and fifth in scoring offense.
A penalty called on UIC in the 11th minute put
Aidan Megally one-on-one with UIC goalkeeper Sokratis Vasilas and gave the Ramblers the perfect opportunity to take an early lead. The senior sailed the ball into the upper left corner just past the hands Vasilas.
The Flames found the equalizer in the 17th minute when Bukola Abdulwahab collected a deflection at the edge of the 18 yard line and slotted in the shot with his left foot.
In the 22nd minute, Loyola notched a corner kick opportunity.
Justin Sukow made a perfect pass to
Billy Hency who was waiting in the center of the box. Hency was able to snag the header as dove towards the corner.
Fabian Becerra made his return for Loyola well-known in the 62nd minute as he notched his first goal of the season. Hency well-timed a pass to Becerra from across the box. Becerra was able to get ahead of UIC's defense and find the left side of the net just inside the box. The sophomore hadn't seen any action since September 8 due to injury.
A Look At The Numbers
- With his eighth goal of the season tonight
, Aidan Megally now leads the MVC.
- UIC just out-shot Loyola 7-6 and won the corner kick battle 4-3.
- Loyola only recorded three shots on goal, all of which found the back of the net.
- The Ramblers concluded non-conference play with a 5-2 record.
Up Next
The Maroon & Gold have a short break before heading to Bradley on Wednesday, Oct. 23 for a 7 p.m. kick.
