Sept. 5, 2005

Box Score

Irvine, Calif.- The University of Illinois at Chicago soccer team posted its second straight shutout to open the season in a 0-0 double-overtime draw with UC Irvine at the UC Irvine College Classic on Monday afternoon.

The Flames (1-0-1) were unable to muster a goal against a strong UC Irvine (1-0-1) defense on the Anteaters' home turf, but UIC played exceptionally well, particularly on the defensive side.

"A tight game, but I was very pleased with the performance," said UIC head coach John Trask. "To come out here and play 200 minutes and not give up a goal speaks volumes about the defending."

Sophomore goalkeeper Jeff Engelbrecht posted his third career shutout and second in as many games. Engelbrecht notched three saves, giving him 12 for the two-match tournament.

Both teams had nearly equal chances to score, with UC Irvine holding a slim 8-7 shot advantage.

Following the match, Engelbrecht (12 saves in 200 shutout minutes), Pavle Dundjer (two assists against No. 24 Loyola Marymount), Tonci Skroce (game-winning goal against No. 24 Loyola Marymount) and Cesar Zambrano (goal against No. 24 Loyola Marymount) were named to the UC Irvine College Classic All-Tournament Team.

UC Irvine was declared champion of the UC Irvine College Classic, winning the third tiebreaker with Flames after having an identical record at the tourney and tying in the head-to-head match-up. Both teams had a +2 goal differential, but the Anteaters took first place by scoring three goals in the Classic while UIC scored two.

But Trask and the Flames didn't need a trophy to know that the team turned in a solid showing to open the season.

"Tremendous weekend for the Flames," said Trask. "We move on from here with UMKC next weekend."

UIC returns to action on the road next Saturday, Sept. 10th to play UMKC in Kansas City, Mo., beginning at 1:00 p.m. Central.