The University of Southern Indiana men’s soccer team finished the 2017 regular season campaign on a three-match winning streak after defeating McKendree University, 2-1, Wednesday evening at Strassweg Field. The Screaming Eagles rise to 9-6-0 overall and 7-6-0 in the GLVC, while McKendree sees its record go to 2-13-0 overall and 0-13-0 in the league.
The Eagles wasted little time getting out in front of the Bearcats in the match. Junior defender Brandon Williams(Avon, Indiana) gave USI a 1-0 lead at 15:36, blasting the ball from 30 yards. The goal was Williams’ second of the year.
USI sophomore defender Justin Brooks (Fishers, Indiana) increased the lead to 2-0 at 29:05, a margin the Eagles would hold through halftime. Brooks posted his second tally of the year by freshman midfielder Hunter Baird (Owensboro, Kentucky) and freshman forward Graham Miller (Owensboro, Kentucky).
In the second half, McKendree cut the USI lead in half with a tally at 84:28, but that would be as close as the Bearcats would come in the match. Senior goalkeeper Adam Zehme (Orland Park, Illinois) recorded his 10th victory of the season, making two saves in the winning effort.
The victory clinches the seventh seed for the Eagles in the upcoming GLVC Tournament that starts Sunday. USI will be on the road for the first round, making a visit to Maryville University for a second time this season. Kickoff for the first round match is tentatively set for 3 p.m.
Following Sunday’s first round, the GLVC Tournament semifinals and championship match will be played at November 3 and 5 at Carroll Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Live coverage of USI Men’s Soccer in the post-season, including live stats and video, on GoUSIEagles.com.
