GRINNELL, IA (blugolds.com) – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's soccer team looked to extend their opening win streak on Sunday as they traveled to Grinnell College for their fifth contest of 2022. A physical matchup between the Blugolds and the Pioneers saw 26 combined fouls and four yellow cards given out. In the end, UW-Eau Claire found space in front of the Grinnell throughout the game and capitalized twice for the 2-0 road win.
As the Blugolds outshot the Pioneers 18-5 during the afternoon matchup, it came down to quality of shots and scoring chances that ultimately gave UWEC the edge. Their 11 shots on goal kept the Pioneer goalkeeper busy on one end, and the defense held Grinnell to just one shot on goal at the other.
With a very even first half, Porter Ball (Jr. – Minneapolis, MN/Academy of Holy Angels) struck first with a finish inside the six-yard box on a centering pass from Will Miers (so. – Columbus, MN/Centennial) to make it 1-0, Eau Claire. Owen Williams (Fr. – Stevens Point, WI/SPASH) also received an assist on the opening Blugold tally.
The second half saw a much more aggressive UWEC attack with plenty of opportunities to extend their lead. Nathan Donovan (So. – Hazel Green, WI/Wahlert Catholic) would find the only other goal of the afternoon in the 87th minute on a header right under the crossbar for his team leading third goal of the year. Jacob Sampson (So. – McFarland, WI) and Carter Thiesfeld (So. – Forest Lake, MN) connected for the assists on Donovan's goal to seal the game for the Blugolds.
Spencer Banks (So. – Superior, WI) earned his third win of the season with one save during his 90 minutes of play. Banks is now 3-0 on the year.
The Blugolds (5-0) will return home on Tuesday, September 13th to begin a four game home stand. Eau Claire will face UW-Superior under the lights at Simpson Field on Tuesday at 7PM
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