PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — UW-Eau Claire defeated UW-Platteville 2-1 on Friday at Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium. The Blugolds secured the victory with a goal in each half, including the game-winner in the second half. The Pioneers managed a goal in the first 30-minutes but could not overcome UW-Eau Claire's constant offensive pressure. UWEC's defense held firm despite facing seven shots, none of which resulted in saves by their goalkeeper.
The first half began with the Blugolds applying early pressure through a series of corner kicks, though unable to convert them into a lead.
Carson Kowalski took a penalty kick at the 24th minute, but it was saved by the Pioneers' goalkeeper. Despite UW-Eau Claire's offensive efforts, including a close shot by
Oge Enwemnwa that hit the woodwork, Platteville gained advantage with a penalty kick goal in the 31st minute.
Eau Claire responded with persistence and was rewarded when Kowalski scored in the 41st minute, assisted by
Alek Laroi, leveling the score off a corner kick. The period concluded with both teams even at 1-1, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
Aiden Judickas put UWEC ahead with a goal in the 73rd minute with a strike into the top corner, assisted by
Carmelo Kasim and
Elijah Post. The Blugolds maintained pressure with multiple shots, including attempts by
Ramzi Ouro and
Owen Williams. Despite a flurry of fouls and cards, including a red card on the Pioneer's Brady Harwood, the Blugolds held firm defensively.
With these efforts, UW-Eau Claire secured a 2-1 victory at the end of the match, maintaining their lead throughout the second half.
UW-Eau Claire holds a record of 9-2-2 overall and 3-0-0 in conference play, while UW-Platteville stands at 6-3-4 overall and 0-1-2 in their conference record.
In their next game, the Blugolds will travel to Milwaukee to face the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Tuesday, Oct. 21. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CT at Viets Field.
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