Springfield, Mo. - Friends University men's soccer continued its strong season Wednesday night (Oct. 21), earning a 3-0 shutout victory over Evangel University at Coryell Field to improve to 11-3-1 overall and 9-1-0 in KCAC play.
The Falcons controlled the match offensively, scoring once in the first half and adding two more goals after halftime to secure their second consecutive shutout. Friends continued its push at the top of the KCAC standings, as they lead the KCAC in goals scored throughout 15 games. With an Ottawa win tonight the Falcons drop to second in the KCAC rankings behind the Braves, just behind by one point.
Friends opened the scoring in the 34th minute when Jose Quiel converted a penalty kick to give the Falcons a 1-0 lead. The goal provided the only scoring of the first half as Friends carried its advantage into the break.
Quiel struck again in the 71st minute, converting another penalty kick to double the Falcons' lead to 2-0. Friends maintained its defensive pressure, and Diego Marin added the final goal in the 86th minute with a successful penalty kick to complete the 3-0 victory.
Quiel led the Falcons with two goals, while Marin added one. Friends' three goals all came from the penalty spot, showcasing the team's ability to capitalize on its opportunities.
Defensively, goalkeeper Keagan Lewis recorded one save to earn the shutout. Friends limited Evangel to just four shots, including one on goal, while generating 20 shots and 11 shots on target of its own.
Evangel was reduced to 10 players after a red card in the 77th minute, as Friends closed out the match without allowing a goal.
The victory moves Friends to 9-1 in conference play as the Falcons continue their pursuit for a KCAC title. The Falcons travel to Hillsboro on Saturday (Oct. 24) and match up against Tabor College. The game will be played in Joel H. Wiens Stadium at 8:30pm.
