The Basics
Score: MNU 2 - Bellevue 1
Record: MNU (13-6-1), BU (16-3-2)
Location: Caniglia Field - Omaha, Neb.
OLATHE, Kan. - The Pioneers advanced to the National Tournament Final Site with a 2-1 victory over #8 Bellevue on Saturday. The Pioneers applied good pressure in the opening minutes, and
Nicolas Theberge was fouled in the box and awarded a PK.
Rick Hovinga stepped up and buried the shot, and MNU led 1-0 in the 22nd minute. The score was still 1-0 at halftime, and Bellevue came out strong after the break. Finally, in the 67th minute, a beautiful cross found the foot of a sliding Bruin on the back post to tie the match at 1. Then in the 81st minute, MNU had a free kick from near midfield.
Cheuk Pan Ngan sent in a huge cross, but the defense knocked it away.
Dennis Palacios was the only one close to the ball, and he converted a perfect runner one-timer from 35 yards out, and the keeper never saw it until it hit the back of the net. The Pioneer defense held firm, and MNU won 2-1.
Turning Point
Up Next
The next game is Tuesday the 30th vs. Ottawa University Arizona in Decatur, Alabama at 1:00. The Spirit (with head coach and former Pioneer keeper Matt Gow) beat MNU 2-0 early this season. The winner faces #1 Central Methodist in the quarterfinals.
