Victory at last: Men’s soccer 1-3-0

Fresh off their first victory of the season, the men’s soccer team put in a strong effort at SIU-Edwardsville on Sunday before losing 1-0 on a goal in the 85th minute.

The match was decided when Brian Goark took a pass from Jared Tejada and was all by himself for a shot that found the top of the net. That spoiled a strong performance by junior goalkeeper Kevin Corby, who made six saves. The Roos now stand 1-4.

The Roos achieved their first victory with a 2-1 win over the Baker Wildcats last Thursday at Durwood Stadium. A goal from the Wildcats concluded the first half, but the Roos quickly retaliated at the start of the second when Broc Cramer scored, assisted by Jordan Rideout.

“I am happy I scored, but it was all Jordi,” Cramer said. “He made a tremendous cross and I was there to tap it in.”

In the 64th minute, Tom Gaus scored the winning goal when senior Mo Ramahi crossed the ball into the box to assist him.

The game heated up after the Roos’ second goal. Players became physical, committing several fouls. UMKC’s Sylvester Yladom even received a yellow card.

Coach Rick Benben said he was satisfied with the team’s first win of the season, which also gave the Roos a 6-0 record against Baker.

“I am very happy for the players, but we have to keep up the work. This is just the beginning of the season,” Benben said.

The Roos next travel to South Florida to face Florida Atlantic on Friday at 6 p.m. in Boca Raton and Florida International on Sunday at noon in Miami.

dmoreno@unews.com