WHEATON, Ill. --- The Concordia University Chicago men's soccer team opened the 2022 season on the road on Thursday night, taking on the Wheaton College Thunder. The Cougars tried to battle back from behind at Joe Bean Stadium, falling behind 2-0 early in the second half.
Garrett Poynter gave CUC life with a goal in the 60th minute, but CUC was unable to generate the equalizer, falling to Wheaton 2-1.
The Thunder controlled the first half, netting a goal in the 29th minute. Wheaton was able to get a near-perfect touch on a pass that put the ball in front of Alessandro D'Argento who delivered a strike with his right foot from 15 yards out. The ball was deflected but still out the back of the net for the first goal of the match.
Wheaton then made it a 2-0 advantage in the 56th minute. The Thunder played a long pass that got behind the CUC back line. Harrison Lee was able to run the ball down near the end line, then took a few dribbles and delivered a strike inside the right post on a tight angle to make it 2-0 Thunder.
CUC continued to fight, netting their first goal of the season in the 60th minute.
Samuel Epperly got the play started, forcing a Wheaton turnover. He then was able to play a perfect pass forward into space for Poynter. Poynter then put a perfect strike on a shot that beat the Wheaton keeper inside the left post.
The Cougars were able to generate four more shots over the remaining 30 minutes but were unable to come up with the equalizer.
Concordia will return to action on Wednesday, September 7 when they head into the city to take on the #4 ranked University of Chicago. Opening kickoff is set for 7:00 pm.
