Men’s soccer opens 2023 season with a 1-1 record

| Sports Editor

Sophomore Nate Vota kicks a ball forward. (Clara Richards | Student Life)

The Washington University in St. Louis men’s soccer team embarked on its 2023 season with a two-game road trip over the weekend. The squad faced off against Illinois Wesleyan University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in what proved to be a mixed start to their campaign, concluding the road trip with a commendable 1-1 record.

In the season opener against Illinois Wesleyan, the match unfolded with a lack of early excitement, resulting in a scoreless first half. The turning point in the match came in the 63rd minute when Illinois Wesleyan managed to break the deadlock, ultimately securing a narrow 1-0 victory. Despite WashU’s efforts, which included nine shots and a dominant lead in corner kicks (7-1), the team couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities as Illinois Wesleyan claimed the win.

In their second match against Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, the Bears were determined to bounce back. “It kinda showcases our team’s ability to be resilient,” said junior midfielder Davin Hickman-Chow, reflecting on the weekend’s matches. “We’re training and getting ready for a phenomenal season.” 

This resilience was evident as the team showed a marked improvement from their first outing, scoring two goals within the first 21 minutes, with Carter Sasser and junior Landon Green as the stars of the show, netting the early goals.

Despite a penalty kick that allowed Rose-Hulman to pull one back, WashU’s defense — led by senior Reece Nicholson — stood firm. 

“We’re all working days in advance, whether it’s in film or communication on and off the field, talking about what we need to do to be successful in the game and days ahead,” Hickman-Chow emphasized. 

With this victory, WashU managed to level its record at 1-1 for the season. The weekend’s matches showcased both promise and room for improvement as the team begins their journey through the 2023 season.

Looking ahead, the WashU men’s soccer team is gearing up to face Principia College in its next challenge on Thursday, September 7. The coaching staff and players will undoubtedly be focusing on refining their performance and finding consistency as they strive for success in the matches ahead.

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