Box Score ST. LOUIS – [BOX SCORE] William Woods scored twice in the second half to take control and top Missouri Baptist 2-0 in the conference opener for both teams.
The Owls (7-1, 1-0) were led by Rodrigo Alves and scored twice in just over a 10-minute period. The Spartans (2-2-2, 0-1) had chances as well, but couldn't make the most of them.
"The guys played well tonight," head coach Jake Alvernia said. "We keep missing opportunities in front of the goal and that keeps us pressing in games. We have to solve that if we want to make a run in conference."
The team had 11 total shots, including a five in the first half- one in which Alvernia said he thought the team controlled. Josh Phillips and Rafael Rangel had two early shots, as did Aris Nukic. However, neither side could find the net in the first half.
Alves broke the tie in the 54th minute and came through again in the 65th minute to assist on Anthony Moscatello's goal that put William Woods up 2-0. Alves now has five goals and two assists on the year.
"We faced a very good William Woods team tonight, who took advantage of its two chances," Alvernia said. "We spoke before the game about how we would stop Alves and he punished us on both his chances."
The Spartans had a few late opportunities, but couldn't get enough going after going down a goal. Phillips led the way with four shots for the game, while Nukic and Gerardo Espinoza each had two.
After a day off, the Spartans return to non-conference action on Thursday against Culver-Stockton. Kickoff from CBC Field is set for 1:00 pm.
