EAST CHICAGO, Ind. — The Indiana University Northwest men's soccer team came up short in its first-ever matchup with Hannibal-LaGrange University, falling 1-0 Saturday afternoon at East Chicago Central High School.
The lone goal came in the 27th minute when Tomas Sanchez of Hannibal-LaGrange broke through the RedHawks' back line and finished from close range. Despite conceding early, IU Northwest (1-6-0) responded with stretches of organized play and created chances in both halves.
Cesar Lopez provided the RedHawks' best looks, forcing a save in the 75th minute and testing the defense again late. Forward Jake Klingaman also put pressure on the Trojan goalkeeper with an attempt in the first half.
Goalkeepers Gavin Niebel and Jackson Novak split duties for IU Northwest, combining for one save while managing the defensive shape throughout the match. The RedHawks finished with three total shots, while the visitors tallied five.
Indiana Northwest now turns its attention to a road test on Wednesday, Sept. 16, when it travels to Alma College for a 3:30 p.m. kickoff in Alma, Michigan.