The UIS men's soccer team played to a 2-2 draw against Rockhurst on Sunday afternoon at Kiwanis Stadium. Despite twice taking the lead, UIS was unable to secure the victory as Rockhurst's Jacopo Belardo netted two goals for the visitors.
"We controlled the majority of the game and created quality chances, but we should have capitalized on more of them," said Head Coach Graham Shaw. "While today's result is disappointing, it gives us the opportunity to regroup and focus as we prepare for two important away games next weekend."
Game Summary
- The game started with high energy as UIS looked to assert control early. Cullen Ogbuke opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with his first career goal, assisted by Corne Boshoff
- Rockhurst responded, with Jacopo Belardo equalizing in the 30th minute off a Sam McIntosh assist
- UIS goalkeeper Joe Brudnak made crucial saves to keep it level at halftime
- Boshoff put UIS back in front in the 60th minute, assisted by Sergio Crescenzi, but Belardo netted his second goal in the 83rd minute to tie the game once again
- Despite late pressure from both teams, strong defensive efforts, highlighted by key saves from UIS goalkeeper Joe Brudnak and Rockhurst's Franco Brunoro, secured a 2-2 draw
UIS Goals: Ogbuke (23'), Boshoff (60')
RU Goals: Belardo (30', 83')
UIS Saves: Brudnak (5)
RU Saves: Brunoro (4)
Shots: UIS 12 (6 on goal), RU 10 (7 on goal)
Fouls: UIS 5, RU 19
Corners: UIS 5, RU 7
Up Next
UIS men's soccer is unbeaten in conference play at 3-0-2 and aims to keep its momentum in Friday's matchup against Missouri S&T in Rolla, Mo.