DePaul University Athletics
DePaul University
Xavier
Defensive-Minded DePaul Comes Up Short at Xavier
10/15/2014 12:00:00 AM | MEN'S SOCCER
CINCINNATI - DePaul had another strong defensive start on Wednesday at a tough BIG EAST Conference road assignment, but couldn't keep the zero in the second half.
A pair of goals by Will Walker resulted in a 2-0 loss to Xavier, which received votes in this week's NSCAA/Continental Tire national rankings.
Following up a stellar defensive performance against No. 3/4 Georgetown last Saturday, DePaul (4-7-2, 1-3-0) protected the net well over the first 65 minutes in holding the Musketeers scoreless.
But in the 66th minute, Xavier's top offensive threat Will Walker got loose for a shot on a breakaway counter that turned into his fourth goal of the season with an assist from Matt Vasquenza.
The insurance goal came in the 75th minute as Walker struck again with his fifth goal of 2014 as Xavier (9-3-1, 3-0-1) extended its unbeaten streak to seven games. This score came off a deflection.
The Blue Demons did a good job of possession in trying to limit Xavier's offensive opportunities.
But they were stymied in the attacking third by a Musketeer defense that is No. 23 in the nation in shutout percentage. The lone DePaul shot on goal came off the foot of Hans Wustling as he lofted an attempt from the box that was gathered in by Xavier goalkeeper Eric Osswald.
"Again, we played a good defensive first half," said DePaul coach Craig Blazer. "We have to find a way to be more dangerous.
"Unfortunately, we gave up two goals. We need to keep doing the little things, stay positive and get focused for Saturday."
The Blue Demons will look to bounce back at a 1 p.m. BIG EAST match on Saturday against Butler at Wish Field. It will be BIG EAST Digital Network debut for the men's soccer team.
NOTES: Xavier outshot DePaul 10-1 and came away with a 5-1 edge in shots on goal… the Musketeers had a 4-0 advantage in corner kicks… goalkeeper Osswald registered his seventh shutout… along with DePaul keeper Mack Robinson, Caleb Pothast, Jake Douglas, Brian Hindle, Erik Rodriguez, Kevin Beyer and Simon Megally played the entire 90 minutes.
