Soto Scores Golden Goal in Thrilling MSOC Opener

MILWAUKEE – Freshman striker Beto Soto scored the golden goal two minutes and 37 seconds into the first overtime period to help the Marquette University men's soccer team open its spring 2021 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Loyola Chicago.

Soto received a beautiful through ball from sophomore Christian Marquez and delivered a left-footed strike past Loyola's diving keeper into the lower left corner of the net, which prompted a raucous celebration from the Golden Eagles. Led by 15th-year head coach Louis Bennett, MU hadn't played a game since Nov. 9, 2019.

"It was definitely messy at times, but nonetheless I'm really happy we were able to get the win tonight," Louis Bennett said. "We played two goalkeepers and a lot of different players as we try to figure out what we want to look like this season. It's exciting because we have a lot of new and returning pieces who are going to help us, and we saw some of that tonight."

Soto led MU with five shots on the night, four of which were on frame. Seniors Sam Thornton and Oliver Posarelli also registered one shot apiece.

Redshirt sophomore Chandler Hallwood goalkeeper came off the bench to play the second half and overtime. The transfer from Division II Gannon University (Pa.) was exceptional, tallying three key saves that helped his team keep a clean sheet.

The Golden Eagles were outshot 13-7 on the evening but found a way to pull through in overtime. They now lead the all-time series against Loyola 14-0-1 after tonight's result.

UP NEXT:
MU plays Northern Illinois on Sunday at 11 a.m. Central time inside the Valley Fields bubble.

Keep up with the Marquette men's soccer program through social media by following on Twitter (@MarquetteSoccer) and Instagram (@MarquetteSoccer) and `liking' on Facebook (/MarquetteSoccer).

Newcomer Beto Soto with the finish in OT in the season opener for the 1-0 win over Loyola, courtesy of a Christian Marquez assist after a turnover. pic.twitter.com/zSgUE7IDt0
— Marquette Soccer (@marquettesoccer) February 4, 2021