Three exhibition matches prepare Billikens for rigorous season schedule

August 22

SLU 2 – 1 Evansville

It took two late game goals to complete a come-from-behind victory for SLU earlier this week at Evansville.

After falling down 1-0 early in the second half, senior Mike Roach converted on a penalty kick in the 74th minute to tie the game up.

Just 10 minutes later, Roach placed a perfect pass to freshman striker Hansel Reyes who netted the game winner just inside the box.

Roach has been a team leader for the Bills since he returned from injury last season. The St. Louis native is crucial to the team’s ability to control the tempo and create offensive opportunities.

Reyes, a quick-footed freshman from Dallas, is expected to see significant playing time up front for the Billikens.

August 19

SLU 1 – 0 SIU-Edwardsville

Two juniors carried in the Billikens in their 1-0 victory over SIU Edwardsville last week at Robert R. Hermann Stadium.

Alex Sweetin netted the game’s only goal in the 74th minute, curving a free kick just to the left of SIUE keeper Scott Meyer.

After a foul by the Cougars, Sweetin took the free kick from straight in front of the goal, just outside the 18 yard box.

Sweetin was named a team captain last year as a sophomore, and continues his leadership role this year. He was tied for a team-high eight points last season.

Classmate Mark Pais had an impressive night in goal against SIUE. The keeper made a crucial save late in the second half, and will be a key to any Billiken success this season.

August 14

Louisville 2 – 0 SLU

Even in a 2-0 loss to Louisville, SLU gained some much needed experience.

Louisville is the top-ranked team in the country and is coming off a 2010 season where they reached the NCAA National Championship final before losing to Akron University. Louisville retained nine of the starting 11 off of last year’s College Cup team, and returns this year as the nation’s No. 1 ranked team.

The experience was crucial for the Billikens because of the hauntingly difficult schedule they face, especially early in the season. SLU hosts defending national champion, Akron University, on Sept. 10, and also has matches against nationally-ranked Notre Dame, South Florida and Indiana.

Playing top-ranked Louisville will only help this team prepare for a tough season schedule.