Sept. 18, 2007

Box Score

Chicago, Ill.- Cesar Zambrano converted a penalty kick early in the first period, and Dan Simek scored late in the second to seal the deal as the UIC men's soccer team downed Western Illinois, 2-0, at Flames Field on Tuesday night.

In a rematch of last year's NCAA Tournament first round game, UIC (2-1-1) dictated the pace throughout the first period, unleashing seven total shots and five attempts on target compared to just one for the Leathernecks (3-3-0).

In the 13th minute Baggio Husidic made a run deep into the left side of the box, where he was taken down by a Western Illinois back. A foul was called and UIC was awarded a penalty kick, which Zambrano easily converted for his first strike of the year.

With the opposing side increasing its pressure throughout the second period, UIC stood its ground and eventually put the game away in the 86th minute when Pavle Dundjer sent a ball to Simek, who used a nifty turn to create a one-on-one chance against Leatherneck keeper Charlie Sales that was won by the Flames' forward.

"Another very good college soccer game tonight," said UIC head coach John Trask. "Dr. Eric Johnson is a great coach, and it was another great atmosphere here at Flames Field with the Fury and the community coming out to support us."

Trask applauded the efforts of Simek after he scored his second of the young season.

"It was great to see Danny Simek get another goal," said Trask.

The Flames finished the game with a 14-2 shot advantage.

UIC will open a seven-game road stretch this weekend with a match against Florida International in Miami at 7:00 p.m. Central.