Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's soccer team made a strong start in the NCAA Tournament by defeating Lake Forest College 5-0 at Simpson Field. This match marked the first time UW-Eau Claire hosted an NCAA Tournament regional. The seventh-ranked Blugolds set a new school record for most goals scored in an NCAA Tournament game.

Noah Malcook from Fitchburg, Wisconsin, scored two goals, while Carter Thiesfeld from Forest Lake, Minnesota, contributed three assists. "It's huge for the team," Malcook said. "Scoring five goals in the first round is a huge confidence boost for us."

UW-Eau Claire took control early with two goals from set pieces within the first 20 minutes and led 3-0 at halftime. Head Coach Casey Holm praised his team's performance: "Our details were fantastic...we hang our hat on set pieces so (I'm) very, very proud of the guys."

Defensively, the Blugolds limited their opponents to four shots on target, securing a shutout victory. Defender Carson Kowalski emphasized the importance of defense: "As defenders, that's kind of our goal is clean sheets."

Kowalski opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a header from Thiesfeld's free kick. Malcook added another goal in the 19th minute from a corner kick by Thiesfeld. Andrew Phillips increased the lead with a goal in the 40th minute.

Malcook completed his brace with another goal in the 57th minute assisted by Thiesfeld and Tate McDermott. Porter Ball finalized the scoreline with a goal in the 76th minute after Elijah Post provided an assist.

Goalkeeper Spencer Banks made four saves during his time on the field.

Next up for UW-Eau Claire is Hope College on Saturday, November 16, at Simpson Field as they aim for another Sweet 16 appearance after reaching that stage last season.

For more updates throughout their season, follow UW-Eau Claire Blugolds through their website or social media channels.