Men's Soccer Ends Exhibition Schedule With 2-1 Victory Over Northern Illinois

OMAHA, Neb. -- Anthony Macchione headed home the game-winning goal during the 90th minute as the Creighton men's soccer team defeated Northern Illinois 2-1 during an exhibition match on Saturday night at Morrison Stadium.

Saturday's contest marked the final match of the Bluejays' exhibition schedule. Creighton concluded the preseason slate at 3-0 with victories against on the road against Nebraska-Omaha and Ohio State in addition to the home win against Northern Illinois.

Sven Koenig gave Creighton a 1-0 lead late in the first half. During the 44th minute, freshman Daniel Espeleta sent a cross from the right side of the 18-yard box towards the middle of the goal box where Koenig headed the ball into the back of the net.

Northern Illinois tied the match during the 88th minute, as Kevin Rodriguez knotted the contest at 1-1 with a goal off a deflection.

The Bluejays responded during the final minute with the game-winning goal. Newcomer Tor Trosten crossed the ball from the right side of the pitch into the middle where Macchione converted for the game-winner with only 54 seconds showing on the game clock.

Creighton ended the match with a 15-6 advantage in shots. The Bluejays also ended the night with six corner kicks while Northern Illinois attempted only one.

Creighton opens the regular season on Friday against No. 11 Clemson. The Bluejays and Tigers are scheduled to kickoff at 7 p.m. at Morrison Stadium.

Men's Soccer Ends Exhibition Schedule With 2-1 Victory Over Northern Illinois

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Players Mentioned

Daniel Espeleta

Sven Koenig

Anthony Macchione

Tor Trosten