Men’s soccer winning streak put to an end

The men’s soccer team’s four-game winning streak was put to an end last weekend in a 0-3 loss against the University of Indianapolis. The Bulldogs continued to struggle at home Sunday and took another 0-1 loss against Bellarmine University.

The ’Dogs failed to get on the scoreboard for the first time all season against the Greyhounds, who quickly put themselves ahead with two goals in the first half. 

The first half of the face off against Bellarmine proved to be scoreless, but the Bellarmine Knights scored in the second half with 13 minutes left. 

Midfield defender Jake Koenig said expectations and confidence were high going into the weekend, but the team got shaken up by injuries, the first loss and the tough competition. Koenig said the team felt good about the game plan going into each competition, and he fully expects to bounce back from this two-game losing streak. 

He said the Bulldogs’ ability to hold off Bellarmine and keep it a competitive game means Truman can undoubtedly compete with the top of the conference. 

The men play another top competitor in the conference, Lewis University, Friday on the road. Koenig said the road is always difficult, but he is confident the ’Dogs can maintain a win percentage above .500. To do this over the weekend in the two games the men’s soccer team plays, it needs to get at least one win or a couple of ties.

Koenig said the team is making a couple of changes before heading into this weekend. He said there will be some adjustments to the formation style, game plans and some rotations in the starting lineup. With injuries being a key factor this season, Koenig said the team’s depth of players will need improvement. 

To prepare, Koenig said the team had a difficult practice Wednesday that included a scrimmage to practice the new formation and starting lineup, as well as watching video and standard practice for Thursday before taking the road.

Men’s soccer plays against Lewis University at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 in Romeoville, Illinois.