Oct. 16, 2016 - The Concordia University Chicago men's soccer team has shown strong points of their fight and resiliency. Today they would take to the pitch against the Rockford University Regents in a Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference tilt. From the opening kickoff, it was a high paced back and forth contest that ultimately was decided on a 41^st minute goal by the Cougars.

The contest began with the Cougars getting an early shot in the first minute that set the pace for the afternoon. Both teams continued to fight end to end throughout the half. Senior Roberto Aragon made multiple fantastic saves to keep the match tied.

The Cougars finally broke through in the 41^st minute. The goal was scored on a set piece from 34 yards out. Senior Roberto Avila took the free kick, lobbed it far into the box where David Sanford timed his run perfectly. He headed the ball sharply into the back of the net for his first goal of his career and the lone score of the match.

In the second half, both teams continued to battle back and forth, with a lot of pace to the match. CUC really buckled down over the final 15 minutes of the match facing a strong Regents' attack that continued to create chances and runs, but the closing speed of the Cougars preserved the 1-0 game.

"This was a team win," remarked CUC head coach Micah Middendorf following the match. "Our guys battled all day long. It may not be the prettiest win ever, but we fought and I am so proud of our guys coming together today to get this win."

At halftime, the Cougars were able to recognize the two seniors on this year's team. Avila and Aragon will be playing their final matches in the Concordia uniform over the coming weeks.

The Cougars will take to the field again on Wednesday when they welcome Aurora University to Concordia Stadium. Opening kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.