RIVER FALLS, Wis. – The UW-River Falls men's soccer team earned a 1-0 victory over the Pipers Tuesday afternoon at Ramer Soccer Stadium, using a second-half penalty kick from Ilya Lalich to secure its second consecutive win.
With the victory, the Falcons improved to 7-5-4 overall, while the Pipers fell to 4-8-3 on the season.
The Falcons controlled much of the offensive action throughout the first half, outshooting Hamline 8-5 while earning nine corner kicks. UWRF generated several shots on goal from Sorel Richardson, Hunter Berry and Sam Everakes, but Hamline goalkeeper Brandon Cruz Rojas kept the contest scoreless heading into halftime.
River Falls continued to apply offensive pressure in the second half, creating opportunities while limiting Hamline's chances on goal.
Following a Piper red card at the 61st-minute mark, the Falcon breakthrough came in the 75th minute when Lalich stepped up to the penalty spot following a Hamline foul inside the box. Lalich converted the penalty kick at the 74:39 mark, putting the Falcons ahead 1-0 with just over 15 minutes remaining.
UWRF maintained its offensive pressure following the goal, recording three additional scoring opportunities while its defense held strong to preserve the one-goal advantage.
The Falcons finished with a 17-12 advantage in shots, including a 9-1 edge in shots on goal. River Falls also held a commanding 14-4 advantage in corner kicks.
Lalich and Berry led the Falcons with three shots apiece, while Richardson added two shots, both on target. Goalkeeper Greyson Shiek recorded one save in 90 minutes of action to earn the shutout.
The Falcons will return to WIAC competition on Saturday, Oct. 24, traveling to UW-Platteville for a 3 p.m. matchup against the Pioneers.
