The Becker Bulldogs and Big Lake Hornets took the field last Thursday in Becker to open the boys soccer season and after 80 minutes of action, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. 

Because of COVID-19 considerations, the MSHSL has eliminated the normal overtime routine of two separate five minute halves followed by a shootout if necessary.

The Bulldogs performed better all around in the statistics department, but it didn’t translate into success on the scoreboard.

“We outshot them 22-2, but we only had six shots on net,” said coach Nick Crowley.  “That was our biggest issue - getting good, quality shots on frame.”

Becker controlled much of the action between the lines, notching 100 more passes than the Hornets in the game. However, Crowley credited the Big Lake goalie, Tyler Huver, with some excellent saves to keep the ball out of the net.

After a scoreless first half, Big Lake scored twelve minutes into the second stanza as Conner Rosenthal took advantage of a Becker mistake and raced down field to score the opening goal.

With twelve minutes left in the game, Becker was able to tie the score on a goal by Senior captain Ray Lyon.

“Ray scored a wonderful goal on a counterattack,” said Crowley.  “He took it from half way and placed a well timed shot in the corner of the net.”

Magic 2, Bulldogs 0

Thursday night, Becker traveled to Monticello and couldn’t master the artificial turf as they suffered the shutout loss to the Magic.

“Monticello’s passing was great and it took us a while to figure out the turf,” said Crowley.  “Kevin Vogl was solid in goal for us, as he had twenty saves including some good ones.”

The Bulldogs did have a few offensive opportunities, but the team was unable to find the back of the net with the shots they generated. Chris Stich and Chase Murphy generated a few scoring attackes, while Max Rositas also had a chance with a free kick from 25 yards out that ended up hitting the Magic’s wall defense.

“We just didn’t take advantage of our chances,” said Crowley.

Defensively, Crowley credited Riley Boyer with playing a solid game.

Up next for the Bulldogs they were scheduled to host a Thursday matchup with Princeton, while North Branch comes to town Tuesday night for a 7 p.m. game.  Results for both will be in next week’s Patriot.