NIAGARA UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The Niagara men’s soccer team fell 4-0 at Western Michigan on Monday afternoon. Freshman goalkeeper Nick Burke made 10 saves in his first career start.
Match Moments
- 5′ – Niagara fended off a pair of quick corners from the Broncos. After the second was sent out the back line by Western Michigan, Burke flipped the field in niagara’s favor with a big goal kick that gave the Purple Eagles possession deep in their offensive zone.
- 37′ – The Broncos found themselves with a rush down the right side, but Burke kept things scoreless with a diving save on a ball headed on net from in close.
- 41′ – Niagara’s back line remained stout as chaos ensured following another Bronco corner kick. The defense combined to block several shots and keep the ball out of the net.
- 58′ – Josh Tufino was fed a pass from the left side but was knocked down as his shot went just over the crossbar.
- 80′ – Luca Pacheco took a free kick from 25 yards and laced a blistering ball on net but couldn’t crack the keeper.
Coach’s Corner
- Head coach Bill Boyle: “We had a rough second half today. We were ready for a fight in the first and followed a tactical game plan. We had Western [Michigan] questioning themselves but they are also a strong and proven side. We need to be more mit and improve at the basics defensively. We look forward to our home opener Friday and another good opponent in Northern Kentucky.”
Up Next
- Niagara opens the home portion of its schedule with a Friday night showdown against Northern Kentucky. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. from Niagara Field.
