Nov. 1, 2009 (KIRKSVILLE) – The 16th-ranked Truman men’s soccer team controlled play for the majority of the afternoon Sunday, but it was a goal in the 25th minute by visiting Columbia (Mo.) College that stood up in a 1-0 decision at the Truman Soccer Pitch. The Bulldogs dropped to 11-3-1 overall with the loss.
Yudai Yamaguchi trapped a pass from teammate Lloyd Jacobs off his chest before turning and firing a shot past Truman goalkeeper Tyler Knierim to give the Cougars the only goal they’d eventually need on the day. Despite only out-shooting CU, 16-13, the Bulldogs controlled the pace of play throughout but couldn’t find pay-dirt past Cougar keeper Ken Searles.
Truman celebrated Senior Day prior to the match and started nine of the ten players recognized, including Danny Baker in goal for his first career start. Knierim and a handful of the regular starters entered in the 22nd minute for the rest of the match between Truman and CU – the nation’s No. 8 team in NAIA.
Matt Kimball came off the bench to take a team-high three shots for the Bulldogs.
With three make-up games yet to be re-scheduled, the Bulldogs have just one match remaining in the regular season – set for Tuesday afternoon at 2 pm against Hannibal-LaGrange in Kirksville.