By Ben Jenkins, Podcast Manager  

Xavier Men’s Club Soccer is eight weeks into its fall seasons, with a 2-3 record through its first five games while facing several nationally ranked opponents.  

They opened the year with a long road trip to play the Akron Zips. The first half saw the Musketeers come out strong taking a 1-0 lead after a goal from junior defender Joe Calbrese, the first of his club soccer career. 

The half ended at 1-1, but after two late goals from the Zips, who were ranked in the top 10 of the central of collegiate club soccer, Xavier fell 3-1. 

Following the game against the  Zips, they dropped another match to the Miami Redhawks. The Redhawks, who are ranked 17th in the nation, took a 2-0 lead into the half and held on to win 3-0. 

Despite the loss, there were many positives to come from the game.  

“We definitely struggled a lot but the atmosphere was great. Being able to play a club sport and have a bunch of people supporting us is super cool, definitely one of the best parts about club sports at Xavier.” freshman defender Cullen McBride said.  

Both wins came in a double-header against Cleveland State University Vikings and University of Cincinnati Bearcats Red team. After two late first half goals by Cleveland State, the match was tied 2-2 heading into halftime. 

Despite a quick score from the Vikings to open the second half Xavier was able to battle back to win in dominant fashion.  

Sophomore Chirstian Schlidt led the way with a hat trick. Junior Austin “Cheese” Harris put two in the back of the net and Junior Conner Strom scored a free kick. Senior forward Colby Loughran and sophomore forward Jacob Patino also got on the score sheet for the Muskies, with one goal a piece. 

The second game of the double header came against the University of Cincinnati’s Red team. On a day that sported 95 degree heat, the Musketeers had to fight and claw to knock off the Bearcats. 

Senior forward and president of Men’s Club Soccer, Jack Cosgrove opened the scoring early in the first half.  With around ten minutes left to go in the first half, junior defender Conner Strom was able to bag his second set piece goal of the day, scoring a free kick from just outside the goal box. 

Cincinnati was able to find the net late in the second half, but despite battling scorching heat, injuries and fatigue, Xavier was able to hang on and go 2-0 on the day. 

The third loss of the year came against the number four team in the nation, Ohio State. Again, the Musketeers faced tough conditions and played on a field that was described as “truly shocking” by sophomore defender Brokk Olberg. 

The game finished in a 3-0 loss and the team headed into fall break sitting at 2-3, fourth place in the Heartlands division of US Collegiate Club Soccer. 

The season has not been perfect for the Musketeers so far, but they remain optimistic.  

“I wouldn’t say the season started as strong as we would’ve hoped, but I do believe we’re getting back on track. We’ve posted some strong performances during all of our games despite our record not being in our favor. But, after winning two of our last three games the team is looking to finish out the season strong and make a late push for nationals,” senior defender and Vice President of Xavier Men’s Club Soccer Kyle Richardson said.