09/22/2024 Beloit, WI- Westminster College secured a 2-0 victory over Beloit at Strong Soccer Field in Beloit, Wisconsin on Sunday afternoon. The Blue Jays, who entered the game seeking their first win of the season, delivered a solid team effort, highlighted by a powerful second-half performance. 

The first half ended in a stalemate, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net. Westminster maintained offensive pressure, recording 13 shots and 5 on goal compared to Beloit's 5 shots, only 1 of which was on target. Despite this, neither team was able to score in the opening period. 

The breakthrough came when senior Ethan Paff netted the first goal of the game at 59:53, scoring unassisted to put Westminster ahead 1-0. This goal seemed to enliven the Blue Jays, who continued to press offensively. 

As the game neared the final whistle, senior Niklas Olsson sealed the victory with a second goal at 89:48, extending the lead to 2-0.  

Westminster's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Toby Hughes, was resilient, limiting Beloit to just 10 total shots and only 4 on goal. Hughes recorded 4 saves, ensuring a clean sheet and further solidifying the team's defensive capabilities.  

Offensively, Westminster showed their attacking potential, something they struggled with in their previous matches, with 30 shots and 15 on target throughout the match. The Blue Jays also earned 9 corner kicks, maintaining pressure on Beloit's defense. 

This victory should provide a much-needed boost for the team's confidence and help build momentum moving forward as they head into their first conference matchup on Saturday September 28th against Blackburn College in Carlinville, Illinois.