WILMINGTON – Two matches. Two shutouts.
The Wilmington College men’s soccer team recorded its second consecutive clean slate Thursday evening, defeating Muskingum University 5-0 in Ohio Athletic Conference action at Townsend Field.
“It wasn’t a pretty game of soccer given the conditions, but our guys did a great to being ready and focused from the first minute,” said WC head coach Alex Van der Sluijs. “The rain and wind created such a challenge to the way we normally play, but it was great to see out guys adjust and do what was needed to get the victory. I’m really proud of their effort and attitude.”
Wilmington held a 19-9 edge in shots including an 8-4 margin on goal. In goal for WC, Felix Maurer and Bradyn Riffle each made two saves and combined for a second shutout in as many games. The hosts also held an 8-1 edge in earned corner kicks.
Individually, Elorm Dogbey and Zach Burgmeier both scored a goal and assisted on another.
Wilmington (2-0-0) heads to the University of Mount Union Sunday. Kickoff from Alliance is scheduled for 2 p.m.
The Fightin’ Quakers did not waste time scoring as Dogbey broke loose down the far side of the Williams Stadium pitch in the third minute. Just before the ball crossed the end line, Dogbey sent a low cross into the box that found the feet of Forino, who hit a one-timer low to the far side for the first goal of the game. Wilmington, which enjoyed the majority of possession, doubled its lead in the 16th minute when a Grant Murray cross found the head of Burgmeier.
Wilmington kept the pressure on, and it paid off in the 33rd minute when Dogbey broke through the Muskies defense and was fouled in the box. The junior from Dayton converted the penalty kick for his third goal of the season. The Quakers weren’t done, however, as Dawid Bogaczewicz fed a ball through the defense. Jeffry Vasquez completed the diagonal run and slipped a shot under Muskingum goalkeeper for the fourth goal of the half.
The Quakers, content to possess with a large lead, made it 5-0 in the 53rd minute when a Burgmeier corner kick found the foot of Michael Owusu.
