AUSTIN — In a tight game, the Minnesota West men's soccer team lost on the road 2-0 to Riverland Community College on Wednesday.
"The game was pretty competitive to start out," said West head coach Jordan Balster. "Riverland was able to get the ball forward and create some opportunities, but our defense was strong and we kept it scoreless until later in the first half. Halftime we were down 0-1. Riverland scored their second goal with 12 minutes remaining in the game."
Minnesota West's goal, said Balster, was to work on moving the ball forward and creating its own opportunities. The Bluejays were able to get close with a few free kicks and corners, but still didn't convert.
Ulises Barrera put a shot on goal with a free kick, but the Riverland goalkeeper made the save. Guilherme Castro attempted a long-range shot that drifted just wide late in the contest. Meanwhile, Angel Flores made some big saves to keep the game close.
Minnesota West's next game is Sept. 14 at Anoka-Ramsey in a 4 p.m. start.
Balster said that despite Wednesday's loss, his players improved their communication. The team continues to improve communication skills while working on combinations and other tactics to increase scoring chances.
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