The Baker University men’s soccer team took on another top-ranked opponent Saturday but came up short, losing 1-0 to Missouri Baptist University.
After a season-opening loss to nationally ranked Oklahoma City University, the Wildcats’ play improved against National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics-ranked No. 21, MBU, but the team still couldn’t capture a win, head coach Alan Koch said.
“We played well after a disappointing game against OCU,” Koch said. “Missouri Baptist was another tough opponent. Playing the big boys early like we have is a good test, for sure.”
In the week leading up to the game against Baker, MBU played and beat No. 23, Bellevue College, and No. 6, Hastings College.
Koch said the play on the field against a tough opponent was a good sign for the ‘Cats.
“In this game, the team picked up their level of play,” Koch said. “We created a lot of chances on offensive, and our defense, along with goalkeeper Bret Clark, picked up their play as well.”
Clark, a senior, came off his line to defend the ball that was redirected to Thomas, who put the ball in the net.
Even after allowing a goal, Koch said his goalkeeper’s play was still impressive.
“Bret played well; we just faced a good opponent,” Koch said.
Senior captain David Russell agreed with his coach.
“Our effort and our overall play was much better than the game against OCU,” Russell said. “Missouri Baptist was a good team. They played well and found the net; we played well and didn’t. That’s how it goes sometimes.”
The Wildcats made a late attempt to tie the score in the second half. Senior forward Shaun Nicklin came off the bench to spark the Baker attack.
The ‘Cats created many chances late, but couldn’t find the net to tie the score, Clark said.
Junior transfer Gerard Grehan, senior Josh Marchbank and sophomore Peter Weeks all created opportunities for themselves on offense, Koch said.
“Our offense was very active,” Koch said. “Gerard Grehan was a big presence up front. Josh Marchbank created a few opportunities for himself, and Peter Weeks worked very, very hard when he was in there.
Marchbank said he felt good about the team’s play.
“We played much better as a team against Missouri Baptist,” Marchbank said. “We had a poor showing against Oklahoma City and it was nice to see us play better. “
Although the result wasn’t what he wanted, the improvements were a great sign for the team, Koch said.
“Our performance level was the biggest improvement,” Koch said. “It was great to see a high performance level on the field.”
The Baker men’s soccer team will try to get its first win of the year today against Grand View College in Des Moines, Iowa.
For more photos from this game, check out the soccer slideshow in the on-line sports section.