Javier Lopez
Jlopezmedinaceli@gmail.com
Godfrey – LC Men’s Soccer delivered an impressive performance on Tuesday the 14th, securing a 2–1 win over McKendree University at Glazebrook. Facing one of the most consistent and competitive programs in NCAA Division II—regularly competing for the national championship—LC showed resilience, growth, and quality throughout a demanding match played in three 30-minute periods.
The game began at a very high intensity, with McKendree coming out stronger in the opening stages. Their aggressive pressure and organization made things difficult for LC early on, and that dominance paid off when McKendree capitalized on a defensive mistake to score the first goal of the match. During the first period, McKendree looked like the better side, controlling the tempo and creating more dangerous chances.
Despite the tough start, LC managed to stay in the game. Near the end of the first period, and with a bit of luck, they found the equalizer through Raitis, whose goal shifted the momentum heading into the next phase of the match.
In the second period, LC stepped up significantly. The team began to control possession more effectively and found spaces behind McKendree’s midfield line. Their improved build-up play led to the go-ahead goal, scored by Alex Brownlee, who finished off a well-worked attacking move to give LC a 2–1 lead.
The third period showcased LC at their best. The home side clearly dominated, outperforming McKendree both physically and tactically. LC even had a third goal disallowed and created several more scoring opportunities but were unable to convert them. Still, their control of the game left little doubt about which team was on top.
After the match, Yago Deven highlighted the team’s mentality and performance:
“We knew it was going to be a very tough game against a top-level opponent, but the team showed character, patience, and quality. We suffered at the beginning, but then we imposed our style of play. This win says a lot about what we are capable of.”
This victory is a big statement for LC, not just because of the result, but because of how it was achieved: coming from behind against a top opponent and growing stronger as the match progressed.
