Press "Enter" to skip to content

Soccer drops another MVC match

The Bradley soccer team struggled to find a win yet again after losing to Missouri Valley Conference foe Loyola Chicago, 2-1, last Saturday. The Braves are now winless in their last three matches, with their overall record dropping to 8-7-1, 2-3-1 in MVC play.

The first half of the match was uneventful and finished in a scoreless tie. The second half, however, kicked off with more pace, which played to Loyolas advantage as they quickly took the lead. Bradley goalkeeper Brandon Barnes was able to make contact with the ball as it shot towards the left post, but he could not keep it out as it deflected in.

The Braves did not falter, though and were able to tie the game at 1-1 in the 84th minute. Freshman forward Gerit Wintermeyer headed in his third goal of the season from a Frank Bak free kick.

A late goal from the Ramblers deflected off of Baks shoulder to give Loyola the advantage and the victory.

Head coach Jim DeRose said he was dissatisfied with the late result but remains confident heading into a tough match against the University of Central Arkansas.

Weve been on the plus side of those late-game finishes a few times as well, DeRose said. It was an own goal that glanced off our guys head and thats soccer. We tend to see things in a broader perspective. Its not when goals happen, its how they happen. Were in a place where we play good teams, and we need to be ready for that.

However, DeRose said he was pleased with the fact that the squad was given a weeks worth of time to recover and prepare for the final regular-season home game.

I think it was much-needed time [to prepare against UCA], DeRose said. I dont know if itll reflect in a good result, but weve been playing just as much as any other team in the league. Our guys want to play games, and the time gives us proper training and recovery.

The Braves will host the University of Central Arkansas in an MVC game tomorrow at 1 p.m. at Shea Stadium.

Copyright © 2023, The Scout, Bradley University. All rights reserved.
The Scout is published by members of the student body of Bradley University. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the University.