MEN’S SOCCER

In a battle for sixth place in the league standings Wednesday night at King Stadium, the Forester men’s soccer team (5-5-4, 2-2-1) nabbed the spot with a 2-0 win over Taylor (4-8-1, 1-3-1). Both teams entered the contest with identical CL records of 1-2-1 with Huntington now three points up on the Trojans and two points behind IWU, Marian and Spring Arbor who are in a three-way tie for third.

Freshman Sam Dolobaipu delivered the game-winner in the 63rd minute when he blistered Delish Patel’s blocked shot back netting. It’s his seventh goal of the season, two of which have been game-winners.

Higor Barbieri gave his team another reason to celebrate by slotting the keeper with ten minutes to go to ensure the win. Tiago Costa set the stage when he intercepted a ball that Dolobaipu then sent up field to Barbieri who had only the keeper to beat. Just like Dolobaipu, Barbieri has seven goals on the season as the pair currently leads the team in scoring.

Luis Costa earned the shutout in goal. The Trojans managed just four shots on the night, only two of which were on target, both saved by Costa. HU has three clean sheets on the season. At the other end of the pitch, the Foresters posted 11 shots, four of which were on frame.

“I was very pleased with our play tonight,” said Coach Russ Lawson. “I thought this was, one of, if not the most complete game we’ve played all season.

“We were able to execute what Taylor was giving us. I felt like we were playing with and for one another –  not only from the balls we were playing in but  in our communication and willingness to cover one another defensively. This was a great team performance not only from our starters, but the guys who came off the bench were also fantastic.”

Next up for Lawson and crew is a 4:00 p.m. match at Mount Vernon on Saturday.