(Ann Arbor, MI) The men's soccer team returned home for the first time in over two weeks for a WHAC matchup against the Crusaders from Madonna. The Crusaders are receiving votes within the NAIA and are 4-1-1 overall, while the Cardinals came into the match at 2-6. Madonna scored a goal in the first 15 minutes and never looked back, going on to win 3-0.
Ryota Nakajima opened up the scoring for the Crusaders, sneaking a shot past Concordia's Jose Garcia in the 10th minute. Garcia had his first start in goal for the Cardinals and had a solid performance, racking up 5 saves in under a half of play. Nick Phyllis scored the second goal for the Crusaders off of a cross in front of the goal in the 36th minute.
The Cardinals' best look came off a cross from the right wing in the second half when Austin Corona nearly headed the ball in that got past the Crusader keeper. Madonna sealed the fate of the game in the 84th minute when Nakajima scored his second of the match.
The Cardinals will return to action this Friday, October 1st when they host Cornerstone. Kick off will be at 1:00 PM at Ferry Field at Cardinal Stadium.
