Sept. 16, 2006

Box Score

SEATTLE, WA- A few mistakes proved to be too many for the Northern Illinois University men's soccer team on Friday (Sept. 15) as the Huskies lost a 5-0 contest to the University of Washington in the first match of the Husky Fever Classic.

NIU is now 4-3 on the season and will pick themselves up and come out fighting against the University of Portland in their final match-up of the tournament on Sunday (Sept. 17) at 1 pm (CDT).

"I thought Washington was an outstanding team and definitely lived up to their top five billing" said head coach Steve Simmons. "I thought we did very well the first 35 minutes or so and were able to take the sting away from their play; but, a couple of softer goals toward the end of the half put us on our back foot."

NIU was trying to dig out and push for the goal, but Washington continued to edge the Huskies with three goals in the second half of play action.

Coach Simmons added, "Our kids didn't quit fighting and were resilient towards UW; we are going to try and get as much out of this tournament as possible."

NIU is back in action on Sunday, September 17 in Seattle, WA, before traveling to Notre Dame on Wednesday, September 20 during their first week of MAC competition.

--NIU--

(For Further information, please contact Katie Hein at 815.753.9572)