Oct. 20, 2006
Box Score
Chicago, Ill.- The 13th-ranked UIC men's soccer team began the final leg of the race for the Horizon League regular season title with a 1-1 draw at crosstown rival Loyola on Friday night.
The Flames now hold their destiny in their own hands as a victory this Sunday over UW-Green Bay would vault UIC to its first conference championship since 2000.
On a chilly night in Rogers Park, the Flames (11-2-3, 4-1-1 Horizon League) took the early lead with an exquisite goal from Pavle Dundjer seven minutes into the match. Tonci Skroce slipped a solid ball from near the top of the box into the possession of a cutting Dundjer, and the junior midfielder hit nothing but net to put UIC on top.
But 20 minutes later the Ramblers (9-6-1, 4-1-1 Horizon League) scored the equalizer as Matt Marek headed in a ball off a free kick from Keum Sung Kim.
UIC had some quality chances, particularly late in the match. An opposite-side laser from 15 yards out by Mike Giffin in the 78th minute banged off the right post, and a rocket shot launched off the foot of Pawel Ligas with 28 seconds left in the first overtime hit the crossbar.
"Good game, good derby," said UIC head coach John Trask. "It's all still out there.
"I thought we had the quality attempts, we just didn't take advantage," said Trask. "It was a tough, tight match. Fair dues to Loyola and their staff."
Jovan Bubonja made five saves in goal for the Flames.
Each team attempted 11 shots, with the Flames taking an 8-6 advantage in attempts on target.
UIC will seek to clinch the third Horizon League regular season crown in school history at home this Sunday, October 22nd against UW-Green Bay at Flames Field. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m., and Senior Day festivities will be held prior to player introductions.
