Men's Soccer Wins at UIC

CHICAGO - - Belmont University men's soccer (4-7-3, 1-4-1 MVC) earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory at UIC (6-6-0, 2-3-0 MVC) Friday night from Flames Field.
 
A touch of class from Alex Clayton and a determined finish from Nate Mefford early in the second half proved decisive as the Bruins earned a valuable three points.
 
Having met in each of the last two Missouri Valley Conference tournaments, the two sides showed their familiarity and ability.
 
The opening 45 minutes would largely be a feeling-out frame, as both teams were attentive defensively and locked in against potential counterattacks.
 
In the 10^th minute, Cade Cox did well to elude two UIC defenders and create a chance at the top of the 18 but his attempt went high.
 
After a switch of field gave Riley Clothier an opportunity midway through the half, Jimiyu Mark drew a foul in the 44^th minute on a determined run. But Belmont's restart from 25 yards out would go by the boards.
 
Intensity raised in the second 45, with more cautions, physicality, and chippy play.
 
In the 57^th minute, Alex Clayton delivered a gorgeous ball into the box from the left flank which connected with Nate Mefford for an acrobatic header goal.
 
Moments later, UIC forward Bart Muns had a flick header hit the crossbar.
 
Belmont maintained its connection and communication, and nearly found a second tally in the 75^th minute.
 
Rubyn Singh Gill worked free down the right side and forced a sprawling save from Oren Asher. Mefford nearly scored off the rebound but his contested attempt in traffic was just off frame.
 
As Belmont continued to defend well and put numbers behind the ball, the Bruins had to dodge a few UIC chances.
 
A disputed Bruin handball just outside the box in the 84^th minute gave the Flames a dangerous opportunity but a free kick went wide.
 
Then in the final minute, Dylan Steely made a tremendous defensive play to block a Flames' shot and help run out the clock.
 
Belmont earned six corners and limited UIC to four shots on goal.
 
Belmont returns to action Friday, Oct. 25 vs. Northern Illinois. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. from E.S. Rose Park. All Bruin home matches are broadcast on ESPN+.
 
Follow Belmont men's soccer on social media – @BelmontMSoccer on X, formerly Twitter, @belmontmsoccer on Instagram and Belmont University Men's Soccer on Facebook – for complete coverage of the Bruins. Stay up to date with all of Belmont's athletic programs via the official app of the Belmont Bruins, available both in the Apple App Store and on Google Play.