Michigan State University
Xavier (MSU/Radisson Fall Classic)
Men's Soccer Takes Opener, 1-0
8/31/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Aug. 31, 2003
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Jordan Gruber's (Jr., Beverly Hills) goal at the 86:18 mark was the only tally needed as the Michigan State men's soccer team defeated Xavier, 1-0, in its season opener, Sunday (August 31) at Old College Field in the 2003 MSU/Radisson Fall Classic.
After the Musketeers had an early scoring opportunity in the game's first minute, the Spartans settled down and controlled the rest of the half, out-shooting Xavier, 10-0.
"It was a little frustrating, not finishing early on. We didn't finish when we had the chance," said MSU head coach Joe Baum.
The second half proved to be more of a defensive struggle, with neither team generating many scoring opportunities. Prior to scoring, the Spartans best offensive chance came when Steve Doster (Jr., Frankfort, Ill.) fired a shot just high from outside the 18-yard line.
Gruber broke the deadlock when he took a feed from Thomas Trivelloni (Sr., Mt. Clemens) that sent him streaking down the left side of the field and put the ball in the far corner of the net.
"I was proud we kept fighting, and we knew if we did we could get one," said Baum.
Spartan goalkeeper Mike Robinson (Sr., Troy) recorded two saves in the shutout.
The Spartans will play their second and final game of the MSU/Radisson Fall Classic tomorrow when they take on Loyola Marymount at Noon at Old College Field.
Final Score 1st 2nd TotalXavier 0 0 0MSU 0 1 1
ShotsXavier 0 9 9MSU 10 4 14
SavesHelmle (XU) 3 1 4Robinson (MSU) 0 2 2
Scoring Summary1. 86:18 MSU Gruber (Trivelloni, Kreikemeier)
