ROCK ISLAND -- Gonzalo Alberola's score in the final minute of the game propelled the Augustana Vikings men's soccer team to a 2-1 victory over the Carthage Firebirds on Wednesday. 

Following 20 minutes of scoreless play to begin the game, Toby Dottin put Augie up on the board to give the Vikings the early 1-0 advantage. Four minutes later, the Firebirds evened the score to make it a 1-1 game. The 1-1 deadlock remained intact through halftime. Benjamin Samuelson saved five of Carthage's six shots on target to hold the Firebirds to just one goal. 

Returning to the field, both teams had a strong showing on defense, combining for nine fewer shots than the first 45 minutes. Carthage collected the first four shots of the second period, with Samuelson saving two of them to keep them off the board. With 20 seconds remaining, Alberola connected on the Vikings' lone shot attempt of the half to move Augie out in front for good. The Firebirds did not register an attempt to close out the final seconds of the game. 

Dottin, Jimmie Kucaba, Alberola, and Fer Cuahquentzi notched shots for the Vikings, while Samuelson tallied seven saves in his 90 minutes in goal.

With the win, Augie moves to 5-6-1 on the season and 2-4 in CCIW play. The Vikings will be in action on Saturday, October 26 for their final home game of the season against Millikin.