Seattle, WA – The nationally fourth ranked University of Washington men’s soccer team downed the Michigan State Spartans. The Huskies scored four goals in response to the Spartans opening goal, keeping their undefeated streak alive to begin the season. Star forward Ilijah Paul, who came off the bench, recorded a brace to help put the match away in the second half. Washington, after the defeat of unranked Michigan State, plays three more non-conference games before beginning PAC-12 play.
Imanol Rosales assisted one of the Husky goals (Photo by Marriah Menchaca)
Ilijah Paul brace bumps the advantage
Sophomore attacker Ilijah Paul was able to make a big splash, but this time his minutes came off of the bench. Paul pushed his goal total on the season to six tonight, thanks to his second two-goal plus performance on the year. And while he didn’t start, Paul was able to contribute from the 25th minute. After being subbed on, Ilijah had one shot on goal before he really locked in.
The forward helped push the Huskies ahead in the 54th minute, creating a two-goal advantage for Washington. A failed bicycle kick attempt by a teammate was stopped by the Spartan keeper, and Paul was in the right place at the time to punch it home. To complete his brace and give Washington the three-goal advantage, Paul found the net again in the 62nd. Teammate Imanol Rosales found Paul, making a great run, right in front of the net. All Paul had to do was touch it in.
Omar Grey scored the first goal on the night for Washington (Photo by Marriah Menchaca)
Huskies overcome first punch by Spartans
Coming into the match, with an “80’s night” theme, Washington seemed the clear favorite against unranked Michigan State. Less than a minute into the match, the Spartans were able to stun the Huskies with a goal by midfielder Jacob Cromer. Michigan State had done exactly what any road team wants to do, especially against a ranked opponent, in getting the upper hand early.
The good thing for Washington, is that they were able to withstand this early deficit. The Huskies took the first punch, and still were able to use their mixture of upper-class knowledge and newcomer ability to get two first half goals. Omar Grey took the first turn for Washington at finding the back of the net, and just before half Lucas Meek continued to build his resume with a goal of his own.
What’s next?
Falling the victory over Michigan State, the Huskies will face their cross-town rivals, Seattle University. The two teams that call the city of Seattle home will battle for the WAC/101 Club Cup, on “206” themed night at Husky Soccer Field. Kickoff between fourth ranked Washington and struggling Seattle University will take place on Tuesday, September 20th at 7PM PST. Washington looks to defend its club cup.
Thank you to Marriah Menchaca for the photos used in this article! Thank you Marriah!
Check out Marriah’s gallery here
