Men’s soccer: UVU shuts out hapless NIU

Photo by Julie Ostler

DEKALB, Ill.—The Utah Valley University men’s soccer team wrapped up the Northern Illinois Adidas Invitation Sunday and rebounded after suffering its first loss of the season. Karson Payton put the Wolverines on the board 87 seconds into the match and UVU dominated the Northern Illinois Huskies by a final scored of 3-0.

Payton put the Wolverines (4-1-0) in front early as he received a cross from Skyler Milne in the 2nd minute, then shot the ball of the right post into the back of the net.

UVU kept the attack strong through the first half with seven shots, including five on goal. Payton attempted to tally an additional goal before the end of the half in the 40 minute, but NIU goalkeeper Drew Donnally sent the shot back.

The offensive attack continued in the second half as the Wolverines’ first two shots of the second period found the goal. Alex Neff gave UVU a 2-0 cushion with a header into the goal off a free kick. Skyler Milne and Aaron Meyer were awarded assists on the play. Aaron Caprio capped the scoring as he received a pass from Payton then fired from the top of the box.

UVU launched 14 total shots in the match, with nine on goal. NIU (0-4-2) managed six shots in total, with two on target. Adrian Coardos managed the lone shot in the second half for the Huskies, but hit the crossbar.

After two weeks on the road, the Wolverines return to Clyde Field for two matches. In the first of the two home matches, UVU will host the Gonzaga Bulldogs Thursday, Sept. 15 at 5 p.m. MT.