The Saint Xavier University men’s soccer program is hitting its stride at the right time. After struggling through the beginning of their schedule, the Cougars have responded valiantly to games that matter and are gaining momentum as the calendar switches to October.
Saint Xavier faced Judson at home in a CCAC matchup on Saturday, October 1. Two goals by Kamil Szczesniak helped the Cougars improve their record to 2-0-2 in conference play.
The Eagles of Judson struck first after a header found the back of the net in the 24th minute. Saint Xavier entered halftime trailing 1-0.
The Cougar offense came out aggressive and scored 13 minutes into the second half on a beautiful finish by Szczesniak and a well-executed set up by sophomore Danny Lopez.
With the game tied, Saint Xavier refused to take their collective foot off the gas. In the 62nd minute, sophomore Orlando Tapia watched his free kick soar past the Judson goalie for the go ahead tally.
The Cougars took full control of the game from then on. Saint Xavier limited Judson to four shots on goal, while totaling nine for themselves on the evening.
Szczesniak put the finishing touches on an impressive victory by converting on a break away in the 86th minute to increase his team’s lead to 3-1. Szczesniak was assisted by sophomore Mike McLaughlin on the play.
A late Judson goal in the final seconds of regulation proved to be nothing noteworthy, as Saint Xavier capped another conference victory with a 3-2 final score.
The Cougars look to maintain their momentum in the brunt of CCAC play, as they travel to Cardinal Stritch University on Wednesday, October 5 at 2:00 PM.
Mike Rankin
Senior Sports Editor