KENOSHA, Wis. -- The No. 23 North Park University men's soccer team was edged by Carthage College, 3-2, at Art Keller Field on Wednesday night.
The Red Men found the back of the net early, as a fifth-minute goal by Jerry Patino put Carthage ahead. Carthage's defense also showcased a strong first half, holding the Vikings to just two shots as North Park trailed by a goal going into halftime. Freshman William Sandkvist and junior Gianfranco DeCarne tallied the lone shots for the Vikings in the first half.
Halftime: Carthage 1, North Park 0
The Vikings opened the second half on a high note. In the 49th minute, off an assist by junior Peder Olsen, freshman Niclas Holgersson marked his second goal of the season, tying the match at one. The midfielder from Ljungskile, Sweden outmaneuvered the Carthage defense before chipping a short lob-shot over the Carthage goalkeeper.
The Red Men would answer back in the 54th minute on a Kevin Reilly goal to regain the lead.
However, the Vikings evened the score once more with a goal in the 77th minute. Sophomore Angel Barriga connected with fellow sophomore Ulrik Lund, who found the back of the net for his second goal of the season.
Unfortunately, the Red Men scored a late goal in the 83rd minute to upset the 23rd-ranked Vikings, 3-2.
Final: Carthage 3, North Park 2
Quick Hits
- With his sixth assist of the year, Barriga moves into a three-way tie with junior Gustav Ericsson and DeCarne for the team lead in assists
- Olsen has marked at least one point in his last five matches
- Freshman defender William Bostrom- Rydfjall led the Vikings with three shots
- In his first appearance since September 7, due to injury, Holgersson tallied a goal and two shots
What's Next?
The Vikings (8-4, 2-1 CCIW) return to the Holmgren Athletic Complex on Saturday, October 12 to welcome the Titans of Illinois Wesleyan University. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
--NPU--
