Royals Beat UNW 1-0 on Late Gronseth Goal

Box Score
The Bethel University men's soccer team engaged in a spirited, season opening battle with their rivals from the south, the University of Northwestern, Tuesday night with the Royals pulling out a 1-0 victory. Playing under the lights at UNW's Reynolds Field in front of a packed house, it was Bethel's Stephen Gronseth scoring the game winning goal late in the second half to get the Royals in the win column.

"I am pleased to come away with a victory," said Royals head coach Jeremy Iwaszkowiec. "Northwestern executed their game plan well and made things very difficult for us. We definitely had to battle for 90 minutes."

The Royals dominated the shot total for the game with a 17-7 advantage and 8-3 on shots on goal as Bethel had several great opportunities early on but were turned away by the UNW defense. Gronseth's strike came at the 72:15 mark. Ryan Ness assisted on the goal. The Eagles very nearly tied the game just four minutes later when they had a great chance but their shot nailed the left post and deflected away, allowing the Royals to preserve their lead.

"It was an entertaining game, fun crowd, and good night," coach Iwaszkowiec said. "We appreciate all those who came out and supported!"

The Royals will now head to the Chicago area where they will take on the No. 2 ranked team in the country, Wheaton College, Friday night at 7 p.m. They will then square off with Carthage College on Saturday afternoon with that match also played at Wheaton.

A full photo gallery by Nathan Klok can be found here.

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Players Mentioned

#8 Stephen Gronseth: M; 6' 3"; Senior

#9 Ryan Ness: M/F; 6' 1"; Senior

Players Mentioned

#8 Stephen Gronseth
: 6' 3"; Senior
: M

#9 Ryan Ness
: 6' 1"; Senior
: M/F

Players Mentioned

#8 Stephen Gronseth

#9 Ryan Ness

Players Mentioned

#8 Stephen Gronseth

#9 Ryan Ness