Principia Gold and Blue dropped its conference opener to Westminister college 1-0 in a duel played this afternoon in Elsah, IL. Principia did well to control the first half of play missing on several scoring opportunities.
Nate Waters's strike midway through the half off a onetime volley was headed for the back of the net but a defection would re-route the effort over the net for a fruitless corner kick.
Westminster did well to break through Principia's defense but their striker was sandwiched by the effective duo of
Paul Sanderude and
John Gotwals. The second half was an uninspiring one for Principia as they failed to stake claim to the match and let Westminister take control. Failure to keep the ball on the carpet in the second half resulted in Principia's inability to build up play in the final third and on this day they would rue their chances.
In the 67th minute an inadvertent foul at midfield would prove costly to Principia. A lofted service into the box was misplayed by Principia's net minder and would ultimately prove to be the difference in the match. Principia had several scoring opportunities with
Christian Thomas coming closest but the final touch went begging. #Alan Cheatham's effort with a minute left also left the audience gasping for a final touch. Overall Principia go home knowing they gifted one away and must now fight harder to gain a foothold in conference play. Principia will regroup for a Tuesday showdown against regionally ranked Augustana College on Tuesday night in Elsah, IL with 7pm kickoff.
