ST. LOUIS – It was a statement victory for the Maryville men's soccer team, defeating the visiting McKendree Bearcats 1-0 on newly dubbed Lonnie Folks Field. The Saints used a 30th-minute penalty kick from
Julian Stoecker to hand the Bearcats their second loss in Great Lakes Valley Conference action.
Maryville's defense was in full effect in the second half, facing 10 McKendree shots while goalkeeper
Steen Nielsen tallied four saves—five total in the match.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Physicality was evident from the opening kickoff, as seven fouls were called within the first 10 minutes before either team recorded a shot.
Leyson Losada's attempt in the 27th minute was the Saints' first look on goal, with the Bearcat keeper making a quality save.
Tempers continued to flare for both sides, and in the 30th minute a foul in the box resulted in a Maryville penalty kick. Stoecker converted, burying the shot in the top-right corner to give the Saints the lead. The score held at 1-0 going into halftime.
Much like the first half, the second period remained chippy, with three yellow cards issued before the 54th minute. A Maryville red card in the 79th minute left the Saints a man down for the final 11 minutes, but the defense held firm to secure the decisive victory.
UP NEXT
The Saints load the buses and head to Springfield, Ill., for a match on Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m.
