The Saint Xavier University Men’s Soccer team saw their season end in Bourbonnais, Ill., after a 5-1 loss to Olivet Nazarene University in the semifinals of the CCAC Tournament on Wednesday.
The Cougars had a rough start to their season but regrouped to earn a spot in the conference tournament.
The Cougars were coming off an intense, nail-biter victory against Judson University on penalty kicks. The team battled through that game just like they battled Mother Nature during a practice last Tuesday.
If you are unaware of what I am referring to, check out the photos from their practice that took place in a Winter Wonderland.
After the team was done having fun in the snow, they traveled to Bourbonnias the next day to play Olivet Nazarene University in the semifinals.
It was rough sledding for the Cougars earlier on as Olivet Nazarene scored in the first five minutes of the game. They struck again two more times before halftime to go into the locker room at break leading 3-1.
The Tigers added two more late goals for insurance as they advanced to the tournament finals after the 5-1 win. The lone goal for the Cougars was scored by sophomore forward Roger Ciszewski off an assist from fellow sophomore forward Marco Gutierrez in the 11th minute of play.
SXU Men’s Soccer had an impressive season after the rough start and the play of several players was recognized by the CCAC.
Senior goalkeeper Kyle Held was selected to be on the 2013 All-CCAC First Team for his tremendous play in his final season in goal. He finished with a 1.31 goals against average and four shutouts for the Cougars in 13 starts.
Four players for the Cougars made the All-CCAC Second Team.
Junior defender Xavier Corona, forward Marco Gutierrez, who finished with 24 points, senior defender Dale Judickas, and junior midfielder Brandon Simoes. who finished with 21 points all made the All-CCAC Second Team.
These players were incredible this season and will look to continue to improve on their performances next season for SXU men’s soccer.
Damone Griffin
Sports Editor