Timely Goals & Resolute Defense

DUBUQUE, IA -- The Emmaus Bible College men's soccer team followed up their opening weekend win with a second home victory, 2-0, over the Spurgeon Knights on Saturday. Timely goals from freshman, Noah Koeller, in the 68th minute and sophomore, Bennett Kreiner in the 89th minute, secured a hard fought victory, moving the Eagles to 2-0 on the season. 

The Knights brought a potent attack into the match-up that had been on display in two opening season victories. From the opening whistle the Knights dominated possession, pushing the Emmaus defense into their own half. The Knights' possession led to a penalty kick opportunity in the 26-minute. On the ensuing penalty kick, the ball bounced off the right post and Josh Matte was able to steer away a rebound to keep the scoreline at 0-0. The last 15-minutes of the half were more even in play, and the score remained deadlocked at 0-0. 

The turning points in the game for the Eagles arrived in the 2nd half. A Spugeon foul deep in the Emmaus attacking corner gave Emmaus a free kick in the 68th minute. Carlos Ventura-Magallon curled in a perfect ball that found the head of a charging Noah Koeller, who steered it inside the near post. The goal came against the run of play and gave the Eagles the 1-0 advantage. 

The Knights again picked up their attack, but the Eagles sealed the game when Bennett Kreiner collected a half-clearance and released a quick, bending shot over the outstretched Spurgeon goalkeeper. With just over 90-seconds remaining, the Emmaus defense held strong to preserve their first shutout of the season. 

"This was a complete team effort and an excellent defensive performance today," exclaimed head coach Chris McHugh. "I am really proud of our guys for executing our game plan. Our team showed determination to keep competing and probing for those goals. Credit to Tucker in net, and to Noah and Bennett for coming through with those moments! We'll work to keep building on this performance next week."

Up Next: The Eagles host the Ripon Red Hawks on Wednesday, September 4 at 4pm at Fish Field.