Sept. 17, 2010

Box Score in PDF Format

Box Score

EVANSTON, Ill. - Freshman James Stevenson scored his first career goal and junior Francis Otira headed in the game-winner as the Northern Illinois men's soccer team rallied from a one goal deficit to defeat Holy Cross 2-1 at the Northwestern Lakeside Classic, Friday.

"It's always good to get a result," NIU head coach Eric Luzzi said. "That's why you play the game - to win it."

The Huskies (2-2-1) controlled the game offensively for most of the first half, tallying seven shots with four on goal. Holy Cross (1-3-1) managed just three shots, but Crusader Steven Stefanak beat NIU keeper Nate DuBois with a header to put the Huskies in a 1-0 hole.

"Our initial response wasn't great," Luzzi said. "The rest of the first half we allowed them to turn the game back in their favor."

Northern Illinois rallied in the second half, thanks to a higher level of intensity, according to head coach Eric Luzzi.

"It was energy (that turned the match around)," Luzzi said. "We worked harder in the second half than in the first half."

Stevenson tied the match in the 49th minute. After receiving a back heel from Juan Hoyos, Stevenson slotted the ball into the six-yard box, where it was deflected into the net by a Holy Cross defender.

NIU would take the lead less than six minutes later, as Rocco Taglia found Otira in the box with a long throw. Otira headed the ball home to complete the Huskie comeback.

"It was pretty good of our guys to fight back," Luzzi said. "We had a very good response in the second half against a good team."

The Huskie offense has found a rhythm over the last two matches, scoring four total goals from three different players. NIU won both games, including a 2-0 shutout of Cleveland State.

Northern Illinois improved to 6-2-1 at the Northwestern Lakeside Classic since 2006. The Huskies continue play at the tournament Sunday, when they face Gonzaga at 11:30 a.m.