The Ashland University men's soccer team surrendered a pair of goals in the final seven minutes as Purdue Northwest took all three points on Sunday (March 14), 2-0, at Ferguson Field.
Isaiah Nieves pounced on a long punt by goalkeeper Raul Garrido Garcia between Ashland's center backs and touched it past AU keeper
Jakob Henriksen for the goal in the 84
th minute.
Nieves scored the dagger in the final minute as his shot hit off the arm of defender
Joseph Renner and Nieves converted the ensuing penalty kick.
The Eagles (1-1) had the majority of the ball in the first half and created the better chances, but were not able to get their shots on frame to challenge the PNW keeper.
Freshman
Rafael Pereira and sophomore
Zane Van Fossen were consistent threats crossing balls in from open play and set pieces, but Ashland lacked in getting the final crucial touch.
The second half was a more even game as the Pride started to win the ball more in the midfield with their press, leading to some dangerous chances as Henriksen turned away a couple shots.
The Pride's opening goal came off an AU set piece deep in their own end as Garcia claimed the cross and immediately launched his punt to Nieves, who was able to just get on the end of it for a one-touch goal.
The Pride had a 17-12 edge in shots while the Eagles led in corner kicks, 7-6. Henriksen made 11 saves for the Eagles while Garcia had seven for the Pride.
The Eagles will return to the pitch next Sunday (March 21) at 1 p.m. at Northern Michigan.
AU
MSOC/BB
