EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's soccer team secured a 1-0 victory over the University of Wisconsin-Platteville on Thursday at Simpson Field in the WIAC Tournament Semifinals. The decisive goal came early in the first half, as Eau Claire found the back of the net and sustained their lead throughout the match. The home team's defense was pivotal, with the goalkeeper,
Charlie Mroz, recording six saves to maintain a clean sheet. Wis.-Eau Claire managed 13 shots with seven on target, while UW-Platteville had 10 shots, six of which were on goal.
The first half began with UW-Eau Claire applying pressure early, as
Owen Williams and
Tate McDermott each tested the opposing goalkeeper with shots. The home team's persistent efforts paid off in the 10th minute when
Ramzi Ouro found the back of the net on a 25 yard shot into the top corner, assisted by McDermott and
Alek Laroi, giving UWEC a 1-0 lead. Ouro's early tally was his fourth goal in two games.
UW-Eau Claire maintained their momentum throughout the half, with additional attempts from
Elijah Post and
Tate McDermott, though they were thwarted by the visiting goalkeeper.
Charlie Mroz played a crucial role defensively, recording key saves against Platteville's attacks. The half concluded with UWEC holding a 1-0 advantage.
The second half commenced with UW-Eau Claire maintaining their defensive stance, as Mroz made a crucial save against a shot by the Pioneers in the 49th minute.
Ramzi Ouro led the offensive efforts for the Blugolds, creating multiple opportunities, including a shot saved bt the Platteville goalkeeper in the 61st minute, followed by another attempt shortly after.
UWEC continued their offensive pressure throughout the half with
Carson Kowalski adding to the shot tally. Despite several attempts, including a shot by
Krystof Cicha saved by UWP in the 74th minute, they were unable to extend their lead. UW-Eau Claire's defense held firm, with
Charlie Mroz making additional saves to keep UW-Platteville scoreless. The half concluded with UWEC preserving their 1-0 advantage.
Charlie Mroz recorded six saves in the shutout, splitting them evenly across both halves to help secure the win.
Ramzi Ouro scored the game-winning goal with one of his three shots on goal, contributing to his five total shots in the match.
Tate McDermott provided a crucial assist, adding to his two shots, one of which was on goal.
Alek Laroi also contributed with an assist, helping to maintain the team's offensive pressure.
The Blugolds improved to 11-2-4 overall following their victory and Platteville's record moved to 8-6-5 overall.
Looking ahead, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire will host UW-Stevens Point for the WIAC Championship on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 1 p.m. The match will take place at Simpson Field in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
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