Bowling Green State University Athletics
Aldridge Scores Twice in 2-2 Tie at Western Illinois
October 23, 2005 | Men's Soccer
Oct. 23, 2005
MACOMB, Ill. - Two first half goals by Omari Aldridge gave Bowling Green State University (2-12-2, 0-4-0) its second tie of the season. The Falcons 2-2 outcome against the Western Illinois University Leathernecks (4-8-2) concluded their regular season road schedule.
WIU's Matt Wieclaw struck first with an early goal assisted by Preston Bernardi and Elton Fernandes at the 7:50 mark.
"They had a spell of 12-15 minutes after their goal where they were playing well," said head coach Fred Thompson of the Leathernecks.
BGSU's offense kicked into drive when Omari Aldridge scored his eighth goal of the season on a penalty kick at 25:56 to bring both sides even at 1-1. Aldridge's goal broke a three game scoring drought for the Orange and Brown.
Minutes before the conclusion of the first half, the Falcons took the lead when Aldridge scored his second goal of the match off an Abiola Sandy rebound.
"Omari and Abby had a nice play where they were passing back and forth," said Thompson. "Abby had a great shot which Omari was able to rebound just off the right side. We looked pretty good at that point."
The Falcons single goal lead forced the Leathernecks to change their game-plan at the half. Starting keeper Chris Frenz (2 ga, 1 sv.) was replaced by Dave Hanlon, who would finish the game with two saves in 65:00.
While both programs were creating chances, BGSU's defense was able to keep the Leathernecks silent until the 78th minute when Nowaf Jaman tied the match once again.
Through the remaining 32 minutes neither team was able to light the scoreboard with a game winning goal. WIU narrowly out shot the Falcons in the ensuing overtime periods, 4-3.
Freshman keeper Paul Shoemaker had eight saves, with three in OT, in 110:00.
The Falcons will conclude the regular season with a pair of matches at home in the upcoming week. Wednesday afternoon, Cleveland State University will take on the Orange and Brown at 3:00. Sunday, the Falcons will host first-time Mid-American Conference opponent, IPFW. The Senior Day match will kick-off at 1:00.
