Welp.
After going to the trouble of playing Maryland tough, beating Wisconsin and then trouncing Indiana, the Jays dropped a stupid game to Missouri State. The loss probably cost the Jays a top-four seed in the NCAA tournament. It’s hard to be too concerned about that result, though, given:
- the stretch of tough games the Jays just played,
- midweek travel to MSU,
- last week’s midterm exams,
- playing on an American football field,
- and Missouri State’s pack-it-in playing style.
Even Coach Bolowich, who doesn’t often make excuses for his team, blamed the Jay’s sloppy play on the team being mentally and physically exhausted.
I’m still a believer in the Bluejays, but it’s time for them to start playing like this guy. They get that chance tonight at home against #7 UC Irvine, who have been quietly compiling a 12-2 record, losing only to South Florida and Cal Poly. The Anteaters (yeah) are coming off a major 2-0 win at UCSB, who’ve been a favorite to make the College Cup all year. It’s hard to overstate the importance of that win, both for UCI’s confidence and for the landscape of college soccer on the West Coast.
They’re led by Miguel Ibarra and Christian Hernandez, who have six goals apiece. Right behind them is Enrique Cardenas, who has five goals on the season despite having to sit out several matches injured. That trio may be the toughest test the Bluejays face all season. Freshman Lester Hayes III, one of the most heavily recruited newcomers this year, has been making an impact, scoring three goals in twelve games played. UCI’s goalkeeper, Andrew Fontein, is one of the best in the nation and won’t be fazed by the atmosphere at Morrison Stadium.
This is a weighty task for the Bluejays, and they’ll need to be firing on all cylinders to get a home win. Ethan Finlay has had a good season, but Creighton has been lacking his scoring production of late, and it’s time for him to get back on track. After Missouri State, critics may wonder if Creighton really deserves their ranking, and if they can hold their own among the best in NCAA soccer. Tonight, with a home crowd behind them, the Jays have the chance to prove themselves.
Can’t wait.
Tonight’s game starts at 7:30 pm at Morrison Stadium. Fans not in attendance can access the live video feed or live stats through GoCreighton.com.