Bowling Green State University Athletics
Falcons Drop One on the Road Under Wright State's Lights
September 09, 2005 | Men's Soccer
Sept. 9, 2005
FAIRBORN, Ohio - Playing in unfamiliar territory is difficult; playing in unfamiliar territory after the sunsets can seem to make matters worse. Under the lights of Alumni Field, on the Wright State University campus, Bowling Green State University men's soccer had several competing factors working in the favor of the WSU Raiders in their 1-0 loss.
"It was WSU's first home game which made it special to their team," said head coach Fred Thompson. "They came out fired up and made the game a 90 minute battle."
After a scoreless first half, the Raiders took the lead on Jason Tackis' lone goal of the match from Eric Johnson's assist at 51:24.
The Falcons held WSU's top offensive threats, Tony Labudovski and Jason Tackis to just four and two shots on goal, respectively.
"Our back four did a great job for us; they are molding as a unit," said Thompson of the young corps of defenders comprised of freshmen Andy Synk, Jason Lopez, Kyle McNair and sophomore John McKenzie. Thompson was especially impressed with the individual effort of Synk. "Andy had a solid performance and was at the right places at the right time all night."
Although the Raiders out shot the Falcons 15-7, Thompson noted the numerous scoring opportunities created during both team's offensive possessions. "Both sides made plays to score, but we are still waiting to get that bounce in our favor."
In his third straight start, freshman keeper Paul Shoemaker recorded three saves while WSU's Jason Leuthhold also kept three shots out of the net.
The Falcons will return to action Sunday afternoon as they travel to Evansville, Ind. to take on the Purple Aces of the University of Evansville. Kick-off is scheduled for noon.
