MSUB Knocks Off No. 24 Mesa State, 3-0 in Home Opener

Box Score

BILLINGS, Mont. – In the 2008 home opener, the Montana State Billings men’s soccer team upset 24th-ranked Mesa State, 3-0 at the MSUB Soccer Field.  With the victory, the Jackets improve to 2-1 on the year, while the Mavericks fall to 2-1. 

“Anytime you beat a nationally ranked program, it is obviously a very positive result,” head coach Dan McNally said.  “Today’s game was very even.  In the second half we didn’t play our best, but I am pleased with the win and we will continue to get better.”

Just five minutes in, MSUB’s Sam Charles took a pass from Jeremy DeHerrera and scored in front of the box for a 1-0 lead.  It was Charles’ third goal in as many games.  MSUB added another goal in the 13th minute as Chris Andre scored off a nice pass from Jurell Linford for a 2-0 lead. 

The Jackets held the Mavericks in check most of the first half and held a 6-4 lead in shots during the opening period.  Mesa State did not have many good looks in the opening half as the Yellowjacket defense cleared many of the MSC balls in the box.  Yellowjacket goalkeeper, Matt Mitchell, had two saves in the opening half.

In the second half, Mesa State had more chances, but was unable to get anything across.  The Mavericks out-shot MSUB 6-5 in the half and Mitchell had four saves in the period. 

Late in the half, freshman Garion Hollian scored his first collegiate goal on a cross pass from Charles on the right side to an open Hollian who when one-on-one with the goalkeeper for the score and a 3-0 lead.

For the game, Charles led the way with a goal and an assist and now has three goals and eight points in three games.  MSUB out-shot MSC 11-10 and held a 7-4 lead on corner kicks.  Mitchell saved six balls for the Jackets as well.

MSUB returns to action Monday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. against the University of Mary at the MSUB Soccer Field.