MNU Explodes in 2nd Half to Down Jackets 3-1

MNU went on the road Tuesday night to start conference play at Graceland University, a place that has not historically been kind to the Pioneers. They have won at Graceland just one time in regular season play since 2005. They turned that around with a 3-1 victory. 

The first half was a scoreless affair that produced only 4 combined shots from the teams. MNU controlled possession but the Yellowjackets were very organized and worked incredibly hard. The second half produced a more open game that was completely different than the first. After a brief delay to let some weather pass, the Yellowjackets got on the board first. In the 52nd minute, Sergi Trullas took a pass into space and got a touch around the goalkeeper which left a simple tap in. The Pioneers responded well. Just seven minutes later they tied the match on a set piece goal. Eddie Morales played a ball into the box and Jonathan Taylor was there to slot it home. MNU was not satisfied with the tie and in the 68th minute they took the lead. Lucas Machado made a slashing run into box and played a ball across the face of the goalmouth. Bryce McClanahan's run from midfield was rewarded as he finished into the back of the net. Two minutes later, MNU extended their lead. Tanner Hunjak played a ball wide to find Cameron Wallace on the back side. He controlled the pass and then smashed his shot past the Graceland goalkeeper for the third and final goal of the night. 

For the game, MNU outshot GU 13-6, with SOG being 5-2. GU's Alex Richt was credited with 2 saves. MNU's Juan Pablo Riesco and Yann Passet each played a half. Riesco was credited with one save on the night. Graceland falls to 5-4 (0-2) on the season. MNU moves their record to 6-2-1 (1-0) for the season. Next up is a Top 25 showdown. #17 MNU travels to #5 Missouri Valley on Saturday at 7:30.