Sept. 19, 2009 | Box Score
Kansas City, KS-The Graceland men's soccer team fell 2-0 to Kansas Wesleyan at the CommunityAmerica Ballpark in Kansas City, Kansas today.
In what was a picture perfect day for soccer at the Kansas City location, the Jackets could not muster their usually reliable offensive attack to produce the plays they needed against a solid Wildcat side.
The first half was a defensive battle, as both teams felt each-other out on the unfamiliar terrain. Graceland managed only one shot on goal in the first period, a fine, powerful stroke which sailed wide to the right.
The second half started out much the same as the first, with both offenses making uncertain forays into enemy territory to little effect. Kansas Wesleyan jolted the system and through forward Arturo Guizar scored two quick goals against the Graceland defense. The first, a pedestrian slapshot which blooped over the grasp of keeper Carlos Ortiz (SR-Columbia) was quickly followed by a powerful perimeter shot through a gap in the Graceland backfield.
There was no coming back from the newly imposing deficit for the Jackets, who were unable to regroup sufficiently to take advantage of a handful of late opportunities.
"Despite the loss the opportunity to play down here has been great; the Wizards' staff has been unbelievable to us, providing our team with a fantastic opportunity," said Head Coach Angel Monroy.
"Similar to last year's game here, we came out very flat in the first half. I'm not sure whether that is indicative of the long layoff we have had, or the stage set before us. We endured some injuries today, and as we look forward to Tuesday, those injuries will give some opportunities to players who haven't yet had a chance. We will come prepared Tuesday, and it should be an exciting game against an always-talented Park University."
Graceland will indeed take on the Park University Pirates at home Tuesday, September 25 at 7pm. Stay tuned to the Jacket athletics website for continuing coverage of the men's soccer team and all of Jacket athletics.
For More Information on Graceland University Athletics Contact:
Matt Shelton, Sports Information Director (641) 784-5318 mshelton@graceland.edu
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