Pace and possession have been a hallmark of the men’s soccer team at Northland International University so far this season, and—at the early stages at least—this
continued on Saturday against a strong opponent in Cardinal Stritch University.
The Pioneers were able generate eight shots in the opening fifteen minutes, but
only Josh Conover’s header was able to find the net in the ninth
minute. Poor finishing and communication would prove to be the downfall,
however, as Cardinal Stritch proceeded to capitalize on Northland’s turnovers, scoring three times before the halftime whistle (21’, 30’, 38’) and taking a
3–1 advantage into the break.
Northland again came with energy to start the frame,
creating several more chances in front of net; but it was Stritch who was able
to capitalize on their opportunities and again score in the fifty-second
minute to increase their lead to 4–1. Northland continued to hold the ball in
possession and eventually drew a foul in the Stritch box. The penalty went
unconverted, however, and Stritch scored their final goal just moments later.
Daniel Doran would score a consolation goal in the eighty-eighth minute as he
converted Northland’s second chance from the penalty spot.
The Pioneers managed 13 shots on frame compared to only 9
from the Wolves with many more sailing high or wide. Northland also held a 6–4
advantage in corners. David Bartholomew collected 3 saves in net for the
Pioneers. Northland slips to 6–2 while Stritch improves to 4–1–2. Northland travels next to Grand Rapids, Michigan, to take on Ohio Christian University and Grace
Bible College in a weekend tournament on September 25–27.