ROCK ISLAND -- Augie men's soccer fell in their final home contest at Thorson-Lucken Field on Wednesday to the visiting Wheaton Thunder by a score of 3-1.
Augustana put themselves in a 2-0 hole early, as the Thunder kept the Vikings on their back foot for much of the initial 35 minutes, scoring twice in a 12 minute span. Augie responded in minute 40 with an on-target shot off the toe of Valdemar Nihlen, assisted by Daniele Meloni. Nihlen's goal marked his second on the season, with the first coming in the Vikings most recent road match to Elmhurst. The 2-1 score favoring the Thunder carried to the end of the half.
The Vikings were outshot 14-1 in the first period, providing little help to goalkeeper Jason Miller in his first start of the season. Miller came away with two saves, and was replaced by Benjamin Samuelson to begin the second half.
The second-half showed more offensive aggression from the Vikings as they got up four shots, though none connected. The Thunder scored late (87:20) to put the game at its eventual 3-1 final. Samuelson snagged six saves in the second half for Augie.
The Vikings will head to Wisconsin for the last time this season to face CCIW foe Carroll. Start time is scheduled for 3:30 p.m on Saturday and the stream link can be found here.
