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The Basics
Score: MNU 2 - McPherson 0
Record: MNU (12-6-1), MC (12-8)
Location: Caniglia Field - Omaha, Neb.
OLATHE, Kan. - The Pioneers advanced to the Opening Round Bellevue Bracket final with a 2-0 victory over McPherson on Thursday. Despite MNU having the better of the possession battle, McPherson had the first great goal opportunity with a one on one breakaway. But MNU keeper
Andrea Dorella made a great save to keep it scoreless. In the 34th minute,
Mathieu Ecourtemer took a free kick from 25 yards and buried the shot into the upper 90 for a 1-0 lead.
The Pioneers continued to dominate possession in the second half, but McPherson earned a corner kick in the 78th minute. A great chance was saved by Dorella, and the rebound was headed away by
Vitus Voitl and cleared to midfield.
Butoyi Issa gathered the loose ball and broke free. He beat the keeper and MNU led 2-0.
In the final minutes, Dorella showed up big again as McPherson threw everything at the net, and earned the shutout.
Turning Point
Ecourtemer's goal was the game-winner.
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at Bellevue at 4:00. The winner advances to the Final Site in Decatur, Alabama.
