Box Score ST. LOUIS – [BOX SCORE] The Spartans kicked off the 2016 season with a 2-0 win over Clarke University behind goals from Selmir Ademovic and Kyle Setchfield.
Looking to start off the season strong, Missouri Baptist controlled possession from start to finish. The navy and white outshot Clarke 18-4 and mixed in eight corners, compared to just one for the home team.
"The boys played well," head coach Jake Alvernia said. "We held most of the possession and created a lot of chances. Everyone factored into the game today."
Early shots from Ademovic, Erick Ocampo, Aris Nukic and others put pressure on Crusader goalie Michael Lubahn. However, the score remained deadlocked at zero until Ademovic broke the scoring drought in the 42nd minute. The senior started the scoring for MBU in its 2016 campaign right before the half. Josh Phillips and Ramon Contreras assisted on the play.
"Selmir opened his account in what was a scrappy goal but well deserved in terms of our work rate," Alvernia said.
While the veteran started the scoring, a rookie added another in the 76th minute to essentially put the game away. Freshman Kyle Setchfield took the ball off his chest and volleyed it into the net to put MBU ahead 2-0 in the closing minutes. It was the Francis Howell Central product's first collegiate goal.
A two-goal lead felt much more comfortable for the Spartans and goalkeeper Zach Wetzel. Wetzel got the start in goal and faced just two shots. He saved both, including one in the final two minutes to pitch the shutout.
Ademovic and Nukic led the way with two shots on goal each. The Spartans continue their roadtrip by heading up toward the Chicago area to take on Judson University on Saturday. Kick-off is set for 2:00 pm.
