The Panthers used all 90 minutes to achieve their 2-0 win over visiting Bradley University Tuesday night.
Two minutes into the game, Panthers’ Nick Moon scored a goal, with an assist from Josh Kaye. Kaye showcased exceptional peripheral view and found Moon, who glanced straight to the middle. This goal marks the earliest goal for the Panthers this season and was Moon’s second consecutive game finding the net.
UWM Head Coach Kris Kelderman was proud of the way his guys started the game.
“It’s always nice when you get an early goal,” said Kelderman. “It sets the tone and makes things easier.”
Bradley’s defense picked up after the early shot from Milwaukee. Substitutions were made from the Bradley bench to get their offense going.
The increased momentum created a necessary change in pace, but Panthers’ goalkeeper, Sam Glass, kept the Braves from scoring. Glass had four saves by halftime, half of his total by the final buzzer.
The tempo continued in the second half, causing many whistle blows for head collisions and fouls on both ends. The field was slippery from rain conditions, and Bradley took advantage with corner kicks and sideline play calling.
Bradley’s intensity was matched by the Panthers with aggressive shot attempts by Josh Kaye and Evan Conway. The physical play landed the Panthers a penalty ten minutes before the game’s ending. Magnus Flaatedel kicked the ball swiftly into the net to extend the Panthers lead to 2-0 over the Braves.
“This was a good game to experience before we play Detroit,” said Coach Kelderman. “Obviously, that’s a Conference game, and this was a good preparation game for us.”
The Panthers return to Horizon League action on Saturday against the Detroit Mercy. Saturday’s game will be broadcast on ESPN3. Be sure to wear pink this weekend Panther fans in support of Breast Cancer Awareness and win free giveaway items.