Midwest Roundup - Week 4

By D3soccer.com Contributor

Conference play has begun for several teams while others are in their final stages of non-conference action. We’ve also seen some early season Top 25 matchups, and with this past week’s results, will likely see some variety in the upcoming poll. Let’s glance at a few states as we head into October.

OHIO

Kenyon (8-1-0) suffered their first defeat of the season in dramatic fashion, falling to Case Western in a 1-0 overtime decision. Despite no longer being perfect, the Lords should not lose too much confidence on the heels of a 1-0 win over Centre and 5-1 thrashing of Wittenberg in their NCAC opener. Expect Chris Brown’s side to bounce back quickly.

From the same conference, Oberlin (7-1-0) deserves some mention after winning seven of their first eight games, including their last six. The Yeomen opened NCAC play with a huge 2-1 victory over DePauw. Coach Blake New has a balanced group, with four different players tallying three goals on the year.

KENTUCKY

Transylvania was the only undefeated team from the Commonwealth until last night, when they dropped a 2-1 decision on the road to Centre. At 5-1-2 overall, the Pioneers have played a strong schedule and should feel confident heading into Heartland action.

After entering the rankings, Centre (6-2-0) dropped their last two contests before last night’s win against Transy. First, they suffered a tough 1-0 loss on the road to Kenyon followed by a 2-1 double-overtime heartbreaker to Oglethorpe to open SAA play. With the win against previously unbeaten Transy, the Colonels hopes for a Pool C bid are back on track.

On a side note, Thomas More (5-5-0) took on NCAA Division I side University of Cincinnati this past week, battling hard but falling 2-0. It is always great to see D-III teams taking on D-I opponents, especially during the fall season.

ILLINOIS

Chicago won another two games this past week, improving their record to an impressive 9-0-0. After shutouts against North Central and Rose-Hulman, the Maroons have still only conceded one goal this fall. With eight shutouts to his name, GK Hill Bonin has played a big part in this perfect start.

Out of the Midwest Conference, Lake Forest (5-5-0) has won three straight games, with all three being conference contests. In his second season, coach Dan Andrews has the Foresters performing well at the right time.

INDIANA

Matt Wilkerson and his Hanover team have posted a 7-2-0 overall record, with their only losses coming on the road at the hands of DePauw and Ohio Wesleyan. The Panthers are led by All-Region forward Enrico Franchini’s 9 goals and 7 assists. They look to be HCAC favorites entering opening weekend.

A week ago, many teams were sitting pretty entering the midway point of their seasons while others were barreling into crisis mode. But, with the start of the conference schedule, arrives new opportunity for every squad this year. As conference action really heats up these next seven days, we’ll continue to highlight some of the Midwest’s top groups who are pushing towards a postseason run.

Comments or feedback for the author? E-mail us.