EAU CLAIRE, WI (blugolds.com) – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's soccer team was back home at Simpson Field on Tuesday as they looked to continue their win streak with UW-Superior in town. After surrendering an early goal to the Yellowjackets, UW-Eau Claire scored three unanswered goals to earn their sixth victory in a row.
Before the evening contest, UW-Eau Claire recorded the first tally in their first five games of the year. UW-Superior jumped on a goal in the 12th minute to put the Blugolds at a 1-0 deficit. Eau Claire stuck to the game plan and responded just six minutes later as Nathan Donavan (So. – Hazel Green, WI/Wahlert Catholic) completed a connecting pass from Will Heinen (So. – Champlin, MN/Champlin Park) with his left foot to level the score at 1-1. Scott Hanson (Fr. – Woodbury, MN) would get credit for the secondary after initiating the quick passing with Heinen on the left side of the net.
After the timely equalizer from Donovan, the Blugolds wouldn't stop at just one as Carter Thiesfeld (So. – Forest Lake, MN) lofted a ball just past half into the attacking zone. Will Heinen corralled the ball, settled it, and struck the ball past the Superior goalkeeper into the left corner for the 2-1 lead. The tying assist and go-ahead goal from Heinen recorded as his first multi-point game of the year.
The second half featured a much more explosive UWEC offense as the home team tallied 12 of their 18 total shots in the final 45 minutes of play. With many opportunities to extend their lead, Eau Claire held the 2-1 scoreline until 86th minute when Nathan Donovan flew through the box on a corner kick and drove the ball into the net with his head for the 3-1 final. Donovan's brace was his first of the year and eighth time scoring multiple goals in a game during his Blugold career.
Spencer Banks (So. – Superior, WI) stopped three of the four shots he faced for his fifth win and is now 5-0 on the year.
The Blugolds (6-0) continue their home stand on Thursday, September 15th when they host Bethany Lutheran. Kickoff is scheduled for 7PM at Simpson Field.
Follow the Blugolds all season long at Blugold Game Day or on our app, UWEC Blugolds.
