The MNU Men's Soccer team went on the road Saturday afternoon to start conference play. Their first test would come against Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. In a tough match that included 31 total fouls called, the Pioneers prevailed 3-2.
MNU got on the board first in the 15th minute with a goal from
Niklas Larsson. He put a rebound from a set piece back on frame and his volley beat the goalkeeper. The remainder of the game turned into a match that lacked any rhythm but had plenty of intensity. CMU was content to kick the ball long & high pressure. MNU could not establish any of their normal possession sequences. The game became a series of 50/50 balls & set pieces. The remainder of the goals scored came in an eight minute section in the second half.
Jelani Jillo extended MNU's lead in the 51st minute with a converted penalty kick. Just one minute later the Eagles converted a penalty kick of their own to make the score 2-1. Four minutes later the game was tied 2-2 as CMU played a long ball that beat the MNU back line and a chip over the goalkeeper finished in the back of the net. The Pioneers responded well. Just 90 seconds later
Aurelien Norest finished off a rebound from another set piece.
Jeremie Koffi had his original shot hit the post and Norest was alert to put the winning goal away.
For the game MNU outshot CMU 15-13, with SOG being 6-4. CMU's goalkeeper was credited with 3 saves.
Yann Passet for MNU had 2 saves. CMU falls to 6-4 (0-1 HAAC) on the season. The #3 ranked Pioneers are now 8-1-1 (1-0 HAAC). They return home for their next match on Saturday, October 11 vs. Graceland (1-8-1, 0-1) at 2:30pm.
