Sept. 26, 2004
Contact: David Barry
The Cleveland State men's soccer team played its first conference match of the season Sunday, a 1-1 draw against Illinois-Chicago.
Cleveland State was outshot 27-8 in the first half, and 34-13 in the game. Athough Illinois-Chicago did control much of the play throughout the game, many of the shots came from long-range. The Flames may have taken advantage of a Cleveland State team that has played four matches in seven days.
"It looked like our fourth game in seven days," coach Pete Curtis said after the game. "But our defense held firm and restricted many of their opportunities to long-range efforts. They played very well, and knew we were coming off a tough week."
Eric Cervantes tallied the match's first goal, heading one in off a cross from Nick Sutter. The play started on a poorly played pass that came off a Viking free kick near midfield. Amir Kettani posted 13 saves in the match to hold UI-C scoreless for the rest of the match.
"Their goal was an avoidable situation," coach Curtis said. "But Amir was outstanding today. In everything he did, he was the epitamy of a division one goalkeeper. He was quick off his line, handled the ball impeccably, and provided great communication with the defense."
The Vikings responded three minutes later when Prentice scored off a free kick that found an empty net past UI-C keeper Jeff Engelbrecht. Roaldset played the ball to Prentice, who found himself at the right place at the right time to tie the game for the Vikings.
Tom Sadd was forced to miss the match with injury, but was replaced by Alex Vickers, who again provided a solid performance in the back. Vickers also played strong in defense in the second half against Xavier on Friday. Roaldset also turned in a nice performance in the midfield.
In Curtis' tenure at Cleveland State, Sunday's match marked the first time the Vikings have come away from UI-C without a loss.
"I'm disappointed we didn't win," Curtis said. "But we were resolute not to lose this game. That's very positive for us. Now we have a couple days to recuperate, recharge, and get ready for Niagara."
The Vikings will host Niagara on Wednesday, Sept. 29th at 7:00 at Mentor High School.
