DUBUQUE, Iowa – The Loras College men's soccer team used a three-goal first half and a dominant defensive performance to secure a 4-0 victory over Nebraska Wesleyan University on Saturday evening at the Rock Bowl.
Loras controlled the opening half, breaking through in the 21st minute when Liam Bennett found the back of the net for his first goal of the season. Julian Lopez provided the assist on the play, giving the Duhawks an early 1-0 advantage.
The Purple and Gold continued to apply pressure, doubling their lead in the 29th minute. Joseph Sorce netted his third goal of the season at the 28:18 mark, finishing an opportunity set up by Ernesto Silva to extend the advantage to 2-0.
Just 23 seconds later, Noah Smith added to the scoring with his second goal of the season at the 28:41 mark, sending Loras into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.
The Duhawks maintained their offensive pressure throughout the second half, registering eight additional shots while limiting Nebraska Wesleyan to just two attempts over the final 45 minutes.
Loras put the finishing touches on the victory in the 87th minute when senior Khristian Hoard scored his first goal of the season at the 86:53 mark, pushing the final margin to 4-0.
The Duhawks held a commanding 16-4 advantage in total shots, including a 6-1 edge in shots on goal. Sorce paced the offensive attack with four shots, while Charlie Sieg added three attempts. Smith finished with two shots, both on target, while Lopez contributed two attempts and an assist.
Defensively, Loras limited the Prairie Wolves to just four shots throughout the contest, with only one finding its way on target. Goalkeeper Alexander Drexler played all 90 minutes between the posts, recording one save to earn the shutout.
Up Next: The Duhawks are back in action on Oct. 13 when they take on Coe College in Cedar Rapids. Match time is set for 7:30 p.m.
