Jackets Sting Western Illinois

October 14, 2007

Lamoni, IA-The Graceland Yellowjacket men's soccer team rose to a new high this season on Sunday. Playing short handed, Graceland still found a way to defeat NCAA Division I opponent Western Illinois 1-0. The Leathernecks were coming off of a 1-1 tie against NCAA D-I nationally ranked Creighton University.

Coming into the game, Jacket head coach Ivan Joseph had made the decision to sit some key players in today’s game in order to get them some rest. It didn’t matter. Graceland’s only goal was scored in the 1st half (18th minute) by sophomore Hunter Re' (Overland Park, KS). Sophomore sensation goalie Carlos Ortiz (Bogota, Columbia) ran his scoreless streak to 580 straight minutes as well, dominating the game.

“Any time you have the opportunity to play an NCAA Division I team you’ll take it. To go on the road and win, is an entirely different thing; it’s huge,” said Coach Monroy following Sunday’s game. “We’re trying to defend a national championship. Opponents like this provide quality competition and learning experiences. Our guy’s played great again. Carlos Ortiz (goalie) has been absolutely dominating." Head Coach Ivan Joseph added his two cents as well, "Our defense is playing outstanding, especially Orrin Branker. Orrin is the only freshman in the back. Steffan Delas, Brian Loving and Ruben Ruelas have also been dominant. This season has really been an incredible team effort.”

The Jackets will next travel to Culver Stockton College on Tuesday for a 3:00 game.


For More Information on Graceland University Athletics Contact:
Matt Shelton, Sports Information Director
(641) 784-5318
mshelton@graceland.edu