WMU News

Men's soccer has three matches opening week

Sept. 1, 1999

KALAMAZOO -- The Bronco men's soccer team opens regular-season play with action against Cleveland State today at the WMU Soccer Complex. The team then begins a six-match road swing on Friday (Sept. 4) when they take on UW-Green Bay. Eastern Illinois is the opponent on Sunday (Sept. 5) to wrap up the opening week.

The Broncos opened the 1998 campaign with a 1-0 win over Cleveland State, in the process gaining a split in the two-game career series. WMU has claimed only one victory in 16 opportunities against UW-Green Bay and dropped the only contest versus Eastern Illinois.

Exhibition action

The Broncos used two exhibition matches as tune-ups for the 1999 regular season, coming away with 2-1 victories on both occasions. WMU defeated Alma on Wednesday (Aug. 25) thanks to goals from Pat Morrison and Evan Fonger in the final five minutes.

The first-ever Kalamazoo Kickoff Classic, showcasing the city's collegiate programs, saw the Broncos once again collect a come-from-behind victory this time over neighboring Kalamazoo College. After senior Brendan McCarthy tied the score, freshman Rob Friend's strike from 21-yards-out secured a WMU victory.

The program's two preseason matches have provided the opportunity to feature second-year head coach Chris Karwoski's first full recruiting class. Mike Bravo, Rob Friend, Mark Stickler and Travis Waters have all played significant roles in the pair of Bronco victories. Bravo has battled through injuries to give quality minutes in the midfield. Friend is an imposing offensive threat and has started both matches, tallying the game-winning score against the Hornets. Stickler and Waters have added speed and quality to the WMU defensive corps.


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