TicketsApril 8, 2006
CINCINNATI, Ohio-The University of Cincinnati men's soccer team hosted the Bearcat Invitational today as they faced off against both the Cincinnati Kings and the Thundering Herd of Marshall University. UC first kicked off against the Cincinnati Kings ending in a 0-0 draw. In the second match of the day, the Kings matched up against Marshall University, earning a 1-0 win. In the third and final match up of the day, the Bearcats took on the Thundering Herd, which ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving UC with two ties on the day.
The Bearcats welcomed back three UC alumni who now have a spot on the Cincinnati Kings' roster when the two teams matched up in the first match, which ended in a 0-0 tie. The Kings, gave the Bearcats many scoring opportunities as UC out shot the Kings 11-9. Both defensive efforts were strong and frustration grew among the Bearcats as their offensive efforts found strong shots hitting the goal post twice. John-Michael Boggs had an impressive stint in goal during the second half of the match has he made all of UC's six saves on the day. One exciting save being off of a breakaway, as he went one on one with a Kings' player, stopping him dead in his tracks.
In the second match of the day, the Kings took on Marshall University resulting in a 1-0 win for the Kings. Both teams played a physical match, as well has having strong offensive performances. Late in the second half, the Kings scored their first goal of the day off of corner kick. A header, which sailed past Marshall's goalkeeper, sealed the win for the Kings.
In the third and final match of the day, the Bearcats took on the Thundering Herd of Marshall. Two minutes into the second half of the match, MU's Matt Dickerson broke through UC's entire defense creating a breakaway, which resulted in Marshall's first goal of the day, and making the score 1-0. Physical play on both sides of the field was a factor as the clock wound down on the match, and resulted in a penalty kick being awarded to the Bearcats late in the second half. Sam Miller took the penalty kick and shot a high ball into the top right corner of the net, putting UC on the board for the first time all day.
"I'm pleased with the effort today", said Head Coach Hylton Dayes. Both games were hard fought games; we created a lot of chances and came back in the second match from being down a goal. Overall it was a great outing for our players."
The Bearcats will continue their spring season next Saturday at Gettler Stadium as they match up against University of Akron. Game time is set for 2 p.m.