The UCA men’s soccer team (1-11-1) traveled to Loyola Chicago University to take on the Ramblers (7-3-3) on October 17th. the Bears fell to the Ramblers 0-3.
The Ramblers set the tempo of the game early in the first half by snagging a goal in the 17th minute. Loyola’s Elliot Collier pushed his way through four UCA defenders and fired a shot past UCA goalkeeper sophomore Harrison Veith.
The early goal did not shut down the Bears as they retaliated with two shots on goal by sophomore Tyler Ridener and freshman Chris Holmes.
“After the early goal we kept pushing.” Veith said. “We didn’t let it break us. We kept going forward trying to get a goal.”
During the second half of the game, the Bears continued their attempts to score with shots from Holmes, freshman Daltyn Knutson and freshman Jacob Jerles.
The Ramblers increased their lead when a deflected ball created a shot for Fabian Lifka in the 62nd minute, making the score 2-0.
As the game pressed on the Bears created opportunities to score, but did not get any goals from their efforts.
An insurance goal in the 70th minute by Lifka extended the Ramblers lead to 3-0. The Ramblers continued to pressure the Bears but were not permitted to score again by Central Arkansas’ defense and goalkeeper Veith, who racked up 9 saves for the night.
The Bears continue to focus on preparing for crucial conference games approaching.
“Every day we’re improving, trying to take care of conference games.” Junior Taran Meyer said. “We’re focusing on pairing our good defensive play with making the most of our chances.”
The Bears will take on Bradley University at home this Saturday, October 24th at 7 p.m.
image via ucasports.com
