Cole Frazier-

In their fifth MIAC game of the season, the no. 3 ranked Gustavus Men’s Soccer Team had a tough opponent, who gave them trouble in the past. This time around, Gusties battled their way to a 0-0 draw with Augsburg. In a game marked by tremendous defensive performances from both teams, only one team managed a shot on goal. The Gusties came into the game with high expectations, having conceded only 5 goals within their first 5 games. The Gusties were able to contain the high-octane attack of Augsburg, who have scored an impressive 37 goals this season – currently the second-most in the MIAC. The Augies also host the MIAC’s point leader, Mitchel Munzing, who has 26 points in all competitions.

The first half began with a similar pattern to all games this season, with the Gusties controlling possession and dominating the flow of the game from the start. The only shot on goal of the game came in the 24th minute. Gustie Junior Spencer Skjeldestad received a pass near the halfway line and quickly drove up the center of the pitch. He broke through multiple lines of defense and sneakily laid off a pass with the outside of the boot to Fifth-year Owen Johnson. Johnson received the ball with a touch that brought him past the Augie’s defense and ripped a shot that was barely saved by the fingertips of the outstretched Augie goalkeeper.

Although this was the only shot that the Gusties had on goal, it does not mean that they lacked scoring opportunities. The Gusties outshot their opponent 12-8 and were able to earn more corners with their six corners to the Augies’ one. Unfortunately, the Gusties struggled to generate many high-value chances which is what led to only one of their shots being on target.

The Gusties will look to their two games this upcoming weekend against another MIAC opponent, the dangerous UW-Superior team. Their first game of the weekend will be at St. Johns on Friday the 11th at 4 p.m. Last year the Gusties were able to beat the Johnnies in both the regular season and the MIAC tournament which ended the Johnnies’ season, they will be looking to get some revenge. The Gusties’ second game of the weekend comes against a gritty UW-Superior team that looks to destroy the Gusties’ undefeated record.