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by Erik Kojola '09
-- Despite playing a strong game, the Oberlin College men’s soccer team was unable to overcome an early first half goal by NCAC opponent Ohio Wesleyan who entered the game ranked 13th in the nation. With the loss the Yeomen fall to 6-3-2 (1-1 NCAC) while the Bishops improve to 9-2-0 (2-0 NCAC).
About eight minutes into the match Ohio Wesleyan received a corner kick and after the ball bounced around the box sophomore Jordan Halloran slammed the ball into the back of the net. The Yeomen continued to play hard and created several scoring opportunities off crosses and free-kicks but were unable to connect, including a near miss by senior Sam Zackheim in the 30th minute. Ohio Wesleyan kept the pressure on the Oberlin defense taking seven shots and six corner kicks in the first half
Oberlin started the second half with energy and were passing the ball well through the defense and midfield but struggled to connect up top. The Yeomen defense held the Bishops largely in check except for a several counter attacks resulting in a few shots that narrowly missed. In the final 15 minutes of the game, Oberlin stepped up the pressure but had trouble getting quality shots on goal. In the waning seconds of the game the Yeomen had a dangerous free kick but were unable to convert.
The two teams played a close match with Oberlin taking 10 shots and Ohio Wesleyan 11. The Bishops had seven corner kicks while Oberlin only had one opportunity. First-year Zach Lipshultz had a solid game in goal for the Yeomen making four saves, while Jamison Dague secured the shut-out for the Bishops with three saves.
Junior Luke Hoffman had two shots for the Yeomen and was a threat at the forward position, while junior Kyle Taljan looked sharp on defense and made many dangerous runs up the field including taking two shots.
The Yeomen will be back in action on Oct. 3 at The College of Wooster at 4:30 p.m. in another NCAC match-up.
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