Late Aurora goal ends Men's Soccer season in NACC Tournament First Round

AURORA, Ill. – Aurora University scored a goal with 9:07 remaining in regulation, ending the Concordia University Wisconsin Men's Soccer teams season in the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference Tournament. The Aurora score was the only goal of the match, resulting in the 1-0 First Round result.

CUW sees its 2014 year end with a 7-11-2 record. The Falcons were able to post a 5-4-1 NACC mark during the regular season, advancing to the league tournament for the ninth straight season. They are one of only three programs to reach the conference tournament in each of the league's nine years.

The Spartans Nick Cataldi provided the lone goal of the match, scoring in the 81st minute to end the Falcons season. His fifth goal of the season was unassisted and was also the only shot Cataldi recorded during play.

Strong defense was the theme Sunday as the teams combined for just 19 shots. CUW held a 10-9 advantage in shots, but managed just one in the second half. The Falcons posted nine in the first 45 minutes compared to three for the Spartans. Senior Paul Stuebs (Neenah, Wis.) led all players with three shots.

Neither goalkeeper faced much action as just three shots on goal were recorded in the match. Senior Eric Vogel (Itasca, Ill.) played the entire match for CUW. Zach McFarland recorded two saves for Aurora to pick up the win.

The two teams combined for 18 fouls, nine being committed by both AU and CUW. Three yellow cards were issued, two by the Spartans. The Falcons also finished the contest with a 7-2 edge in corner kicks, but could not capitalize on any of the corner chances.

Aurora will move on to the semifinal round of the NACC Tournament. The Spartans will likely face top-seeded Dominican University, however that matchup won't be determined until No. 3 Benedictine and No. 6 Edgewood goes final. At the time of the recap release, Benedictine held a 3-0 lead and if that holds, the Eagles would face second-seeded MSOE.