NORFOLK, NE - A slow start for the Northeast Community College men's soccer team led to a 4-0 loss to North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) here Saturday.
NIACC scored off of a set piece in the first five minutes of the game. Ten minutes later, they scored on a breakaway to end the half 2-0.
The Trojans began the second half the same way, getting another goal off a set piece to bring the score to 3-0. Fifteen minutes later, the Hawks gave up another breakaway to give NIACC the 4-0 win.
"Slow starts have really been a struggle for us lately," said Chad Miller, Northeast coach. "The opponent is able to get a jump on us, and if we give up a goal, we are playing from behind. Once we get past that phase, we start playing good soccer. We possess the ball well and create good opportunities but are unable to capitalize."
Massimiliano Simonazzi recorded four saves for the Hawks. Northeast had three shots on goal, while NIACC had eight.
"Our conference is extremely competitive and every opportunity is a big one," Miller said. "We need to keep our composure, possess the ball and wait for our chances to come. They will come."
The Hawks (4-9-1) are back in action on Wednesday when they travel to Council Bluffs, IA, to face #12 Iowa Western Community College in a 4 p.m. match.
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