Northwestern University Athletics
Northwestern Welcomes Valparaiso
9/5/2002 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Sept. 5, 2002
EVANSTON, Ill. - After taking two of its first three matches on the road, the NU men's soccer team opens its home schedule against Valparaiso on Friday at 4 p.m. The 'Cats (2-1-0) come into the contest riding a two-match winning streak while the Crusaders (0-2-0) have dropped their first two matches.
Since their 3-0 loss at Bradley in the season opener, Head Coach Tim Lenahan said the Wildcats have grown up.
"We've gutted out a couple of results," Lenahan said. "I think we're learning how to win games. We still have a long way to go, but we have had great leadership by J.D. Martin."
Martin, a senior goalkeeper from North Brunswick, N.J. and a transfer from Rutgers, has played every minute in goal.
"I just want to set a good example for the young guys," Martin said. "I wanted to bring a winning attitude to this team. We want to go out with the mentality of getting a positive result. No matter who we play, we have to have confidence in ourselves."
The Wildcats defeated the Crusaders, 1-0, in last year's season finale. Victor Boni (Scarsdale, N.Y./Scarsdale) scored the game-winner.
"We're looking forward to playing Valpo at home," Lenahan said. "It should be a nice day for soccer, and it's our first home match so it should be fun."
The Crusaders have sputtered out of the gates in 2002. At the Air Force Invitational, Valparaiso lost to Denver, 4-2, in its season opener and then lost, 5-1, to Air Force. Midfielder Mark Korba has been efficient, netting two goals on two shots, but the Crusaders have been outshot 41-15.
