Early Goal Not Enough for Men’s Soccer

EUREKA, Ill. – The Eureka men's soccer team came out strong on Saturday afternoon against Principia but ultimately lost, with a final score of 3-1.

Just 79 seconds into the match, Ben Williamson (Monticello, Ill./Monticello) scored his first collegiate goal, giving the Red Devils an early 1-0 lead. Cole Hays (Evansville, Ind./Harrison) provided the assist on Williamson's goal. Eureka maintained this lead for much of the first half but could not hold on as halftime approached. In the 44th minute, Principia was awarded a penalty kick after a handball in the box. Brayton Strawkas (Buffalo, Ill./Tri-City) made a great save on the penalty, but Principia followed up and converted the rebound, tying the game at 1-1.

In the second half, the Panthers started strong, scoring in the 49th minute to take a 2-1 lead. They added another goal in the 68th minute, extending their lead to 3-1. Despite creating a few good chances, the Red Devils were unable to score again and suffered the defeat.

Principia outshot Eureka 23-8, with 15 shots on target, while Eureka managed just one shot on target. Strawkas had a standout performance in goal, recording a season-high 12 saves.

UP NEXT

The Red Devils will head to St. Louis on Wednesday, Oct. 16, to take on Fontbonne at 7:00 p.m.