MADISON, Wis. – It was a big game for the Wisconsin men's soccer team Saturday night at the McClimon complex. With huge conference and postseason implications, Wisconsin came out with a double-overtime tie against Michigan State, the No. 1 team in the RPI rankings, 1-1.
The Badgers kept their home unbeaten streak in tact and extended it to 20 games.
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Wisconsin struck in the early comings off spectacular play from the usual suspects. Senior
Chris Mueller found a way to punch it in the net off a deflected shot by fellow senior
Tom Barlow. The goal was Mueller's sixth of the season and third in the last three games.
It was the first time Michigan State did not score first against a Big Ten opponent.
Michigan State responded in the 30
th minute off a goal from the Spartan's electric junior DeJuan Jones.
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However, the first-half fruition drastically changed to a goal scoring drought. Wisconsin had the upper hand in shots in the match, 12-11 while also leading in shots on goal 5-2.
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Up Next: The Badgers will be back at the McClimon Complex on Tuesday when they take on in-state rival Green Bay.
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Straight from the pitch
Head coach John Trask:
On what the tie means:
"They're a very good team, fair dues, they came in here, we went up a goal and they gave it back. We couldn't find the game-winner tonight. We have to find a game-winner with five seniors on the field if we expect to do something this season."
On his players performance:
"It's a big time Big Ten game on a tough night to play and you have to be tough enough to do it. In large portions we were, but at home, with how much this game meant, we have to find a way to put a few more shots on goal in the second half."
On the upcoming games:
"Green Bay is going to be a tremendous test, they're having a great season. It will be a very tough matchup on Tuesday night. Then Maryland comes to town, another top-five team, top team in the Big Ten so it's good we have them at home."
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