Michigan State University
Florida International
McKenzie's Extra-Time Goal Gives MSU 1-0 Win
9/14/2007 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Sept. 14, 2007
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ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Senior Rauwshan McKenzie scored in double overtime to give the Michigan State men's soccer team a 1-0 win over Florida International Friday night at the Michigan Invitational. The Spartans are now 5-0 on the season and will take a shot at their first 6-0 start since 1968 on Sunday versus Kentucky.
McKenzie, who usually plays on the back line, moved to midfield as MSU continued to put offensive pressure on the Panthers. At the 103:22 mark, McKenzie eyed a shot from 30 yards out. FIU goalkeeper Kyle Thomas stumbled on his way to stop McKenzie's low, line drive shot, and the ball sailed through his arms and into the net.
"Their keeper had been incredible all night. We felt bad for him," head coach Joe Baum said. "We attacked on offense all night, and he had some incredible saves. But we were fortunate to get a break at the end."
Thomas stopped eight Michigan State shots as the Spartans controlled play through most of the night. The Spartans amassed a season-high 25 shots, including nine tries on goal. FIU attempted 16 shots. Junior Doug DeMartin had a game-high eight shots, including two shots on goal. Senior Kenzo Webster and freshman Spencer Thompson each added four shots for the Spartans.
Senior goalkeeper Chris Austin notched his third shutout of the season, going the distance in goal and making six saves. The double-overtime effort lowered his season goals against average to 0.38.
Michigan State improves to 5-0 for the first time since 2004 and for the third time in 31 years under Joe Baum.
The Spartans conclude their weekend in Ann Arbor on Sunday with a 12 p.m. contest against Kentucky.
