Jason Verdugo Director of Athletics | UW-Eau Claire Blugolds Website
Jason Verdugo Director of Athletics | UW-Eau Claire Blugolds Website
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's soccer team earned a 1-0 win over Macalester College on Wednesday at Macalester Stadium in St. Paul, Minnesota. The game's only goal was scored by Alek Laroi in the first half, and the Blugolds defense held the Scots to just two shots with none on target.
From the opening whistle, UW-Eau Claire applied offensive pressure. Carson Kowalski attempted an early shot, followed by additional efforts from Owen Williams and Noah Malcook. Despite resistance from Macalester's defense, UW-Eau Claire continued to push forward.
Laroi broke through in the 39th minute with a half volley from outside the penalty area, putting UW-Eau Claire ahead 1-0. The Blugolds closed out the first half with a series of corner kicks and maintained their lead at halftime.
In the second half, UW-Eau Claire continued their attacking play with more corner kick opportunities in the 54th and 58th minutes but were unable to increase their lead. Both teams committed fouls throughout the period. Tavin Ferner produced a shot on goal in the 74th minute that was saved by Macalester's goalkeeper.
Late in the match, another Blugolds corner kick came in the 86th minute, but no further goals were added. The final whistle confirmed UW-Eau Claire’s victory after a strong defensive display.
Laroi’s goal proved decisive as he scored on his only shot of the game. Goalkeeper Charlie Mroz recorded a shutout without facing any shots on target and played all 90 minutes for his third clean sheet of the season, improving his record to 3-2-1. Malcook contributed two shots—one on goal—and Ferner also had an attempt on target.
With this result, Eau Claire improved its overall record to 4-2-1 while Macalester fell to 5-3-0.
UW-Eau Claire will return to action on Sunday, September 28 against Beloit College at Strong Complex Field in Beloit, Wisconsin. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
More information about UW-Eau Claire athletics can be found at https://www.blugolds.com/landing/index or through their app and social media channels.
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