KALAMAZOO, Mich. - The Kalamazoo College men's soccer team picked up an important MIAA victory Tuesday night under the lights at MacKenzie Field with a 3-1 victory over Olivet.
The Hornets got on the score sheet first in the 38th minute as Tim Jeske fired home his third goal of the year on the half volley from outside of the Olivet penalty area. Jacob Lopez Pink would double the Kalamazoo advantage just seconds before halftime as he tucked away a penalty kicking following an Olivet hand ball inside the 18 yard box. The Comets climbed back into the game just over a minute into the second half as Courtney Skerrit placed a free kick from 22 yards out into the corner of the Kalamazoo net to make the score 2-1 in favor of the Hornets. K struck back to reestablish its two goal lead three minutes later as Lopez Pink again converted from the spot following an Olivet hand ball. Olivet was unable to cut into the 3-1 lead as the game became increasingly physical and both teams earned multiple yellow cards with Olivet receiving three and Kalamazoo receiving two during the contest. Overall, the Hornets held a decisive advantage in shots with 16 to Olivet's six and in addition to their three goals, the Hornets had multiple good scoring opportunities including an effort that struck the crossbar.
Kalamazoo's backline and goalkeeper Griffin Hamel continued their strong play as Hamel made one save in the victory which improves the team's MIAA record to 4-3-0.
K will remain at home for their next contest as they take on Hope College at MacKenzie Field on Saturday at 7 p.m.