BOX SCORE (PDF)

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - The University of Evansville men's soccer team (2-3) utilized a 69^th minute goal from senior forward Nate Opperman to earn a 1-0 win at Marshall University (4-2)  on Sunday afternoon.

"I'm pleased for the group today. It was a great effort from front to back," said Evansville head men's soccer coach Marshall Ray. "To only concede two shots on goal against a team that plays in the fashion that Marshall does, very aggressive around the box, is a testament to the attention and focus our guys had for 90 minutes today. That was something we had been working on and today we put 90 minutes together."

After a scoreless first half, UE took the lead on a 69^th minute corner kick from freshman forward Zac Blaydes that Opperman headed in for the 1-0 advantage.

"Nate's goal was great," added Ray. "He did a good job beating his man to the near post space and flicked the ball past the keeper."

Down 1-0, Marshall nearly tied the contest in the 89^th minute but sophomore goalkeeper Matthew Keller was able to save Chris Taibi's shot and preserve the victory.

"It felt really good getting a win against a tough Marshall team," said Opperman. "It was an outstanding team effort from our guys front to back. I'm very happy about scoring a goal but it couldn't have happened without guys stepping up, especially our defense."

UE outshot Marshall 23-11 in the contest including a match best five from sophomore midfielder Ian McGrath. Opperman's goal was his first this season (sixth career). The assist by Blaydes was the first of his collegiate career. Keller recorded two saves.

The Aces finish the Veterans Memorial Cup 1-1. Senior defender Vince DiPrimio , junior defender Ryan Koenig and sophomore defender Trevor Baum were named to the All-Tournament Team.

Evansville's next match will be at Indiana University (Sept. 23). UE is back at home on Sept. 26 for the Missouri Valley Conference opener against Drake. It is Homecoming weekend with kickoff set for 6:00 p.m. CDT.

"This break will give us a chance to rest and re-evaluate the past five games to see where we can make some improvements," said Ray. "I know the guys are looking forward to some time off and the coaching staff is looking forward to breaking down some video to get us prepared for the start of our conference season."