University of Memphis Athletics
University of Memphis
8-3-0, 1-2-0
UCF
3-6-0, 1-1-0
No. 17 Tigers Come Up Short Against UCF
Oct 04, 2006 | Men's Soccer
Oct. 4, 2006
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ORLANDO, Fla.- The No. 17 University of Memphis men's soccer team failed to break through a tough UCF defense on Wednesday night as the Golden Knights scored early in the first half to take a 1-0 win. The Tigers fall to 8-3-0 overall and 1-2-0 in conference play, meanwhile UCF improves to 2-6-0 overall and 1-1-0 in C-USA.
"I thought our lads worked very hard and we continued to create chances all the way to the end of the game," head coach Richie Grant said. "It was a very close game in terms of tempo and shots, but Central Florida did a great job tonight. They were very up for the game at the start and had a good tempo all night. It was a good lesson for us on how competitive the rest of conference play will be."
The Golden Knights came out on the attack early on. UCF took the lead on a goal by Zak Boggs in the 29th minute. Junior goalkeeper Tyler Strom recorded three first-half saves to keep Memphis in the game, and the Tiger defense didn't allow a single shot on goal the rest of the way. However, the Tiger attack failed to come together.
Memphis played Wednesday's match without sophomore midfielder Tripp Harkins. Harkins, who is tied for the team lead in goals with six, was knocked unconscious while scoring the game-winning goal against Tulsa on Saturday night.
Junior Kevin Walsh returned to the Tiger midfield after sitting out the Tulsa game due to yellow card violations and tried to spark the Memphis attack by putting two of his eight shots on goal. However, UCF goalkeeper Marcus Rein recorded five saves to keep the Tigers out of the net.
"What we learned from the game tonight is the importance of starting the game well. Central Florida played with great momentum in the first 20 minutes, and that's something we will look to improve on the rest of the way, and we will continue to work hard" Grant said.
The Tigers will now return home and spend the next two days preparing for a Saturday afternoon match against Creighton, a 2005 Elite Eight squad. The Bluejays boast a 6-3-2 record and began the season ranked in numerous polls. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Mike Rose Soccer Complex
"I know that the match with Creighton will be very important as a Midwest Region game," Grant said. "I know that we have to bounce back very quickly and get ready for that game. It's going to play a significant role with how the rest of the season takes shape."
Team Stats
BOGGS, Zak
long shot from 12 yards
28:03
