Walke Goal the Difference in 1-0 Victory
Walke Goal the Difference in 1-0 Victory
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- The Virginia Wesleyan men's soccer team got several good looks at goal on Sunday afternoon, but only needed one as Travis Walke found the back of the net for a 1-0 victory over Wesley College.
Wesley had struggled in the first half of its two previous losses on the season and the Marlins tried to take advantage of that fact on Sunday afternoon, outshooting the Wolverines 14-5 in the first 45 minutes of play.
Virginia Wesleyan focused on keeping passes short and controlled as the first half progressed and the rain began to fall harder. The Marlins, attempting a push late in the first half, drew a Wesley foul from 35 yards out with just under 10 minutes to play in the first half.
Tyler Ostrovecky took the free ball and sent it in to the right post, drawing Wesley keeper Ryan Sanders out of position just enough for Travis Walke to send a header into the back of the net for a 1-0 lead at the 36:53 mark.
Both teams maintained the fast paced tempo in the second half, but the defenses continued to deny each chance that presented itself.
Will Mileski had the best chance for Wesley with 56 seconds left in regulation as he took a pass from Avery Brice and dribbled into the left side of the box. His shot was turned away by a sprawling Connor Kirkham to preserve the Marlin victory.
Virginia Wesleyan outshot Wesley 23-8 while corner kicks were even at three.
Ryan Sanders made nine saves for Wesley (0-3) as Kirkham finished the day with four stops.
Virginia Wesleyan (2-1) hosts Methodist University Wednesday night at 7 p.m.
