ORANGE CITY, Iowa – Northwestern improved to 4-0 on the season with a 3-1 victory over Avila (Mo.) on Saturday at the NWC Soccer Complex. Rasmus Morrison scored twice, including an early first-half goal and another just over five minutes into the second half, while Emerson Brazones added a late insurance goal as the Raiders continued their strong start to the season.
Northwestern struck early, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Morrison finished a chance assisted by Jovany Kabongo. The Raiders controlled possession and continued to generate opportunities throughout the opening half, putting six shots toward goal and earning three corner kicks while holding Avila to four shots.
Morrison doubled the advantage in the 51st minute when he found the back of the net again, this time assisted by Diego Quintero. Northwestern continued to pressure the Avila defense, creating several chances and earning additional corner kicks as the Raiders looked to extend their lead.
Avila pulled within one in the 62nd minute when an own goal put the visitors on the board. The Raiders responded by continuing to attack, and their persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Brazones punched one in from 33-feet out, his first goal of the season to restore Northwestern's two-goal advantage.
Northwestern finished with a 16-5 edge in shots and a 7-5 advantage in shots on goal. The Raiders also earned eight corner kicks while limiting Avila to none, controlling the match from the attack throughout the contest.
Goalkeeper Edoardo Alessandrini made four saves, including four in the first half, to earn his fourth win of the season. Morrison led the Raiders with two goals on three shots, while Brazones added a goal on two shots on goal.
GAME NOTES
- The Raiders improved to 4-0 on the season.
- Northwestern outshot Avila 16-5 and held a 7-5 edge in shots on goal.
- Rasmus Morrison scored twice and now has five goals on the season.
- Emerson Brazones scored his first goal of the season.
- Edoardo Alessandrini made four saves in the victory.
Up Next: The Raiders will host Mid-America Christian (Okla.) on Thursday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the NWC Soccer Complex.
Don't forget to follow Northwestern College Athletics on Facebook @nwcraiders, Twitter @nwcraiders, and Instagram @nwcraiders! #RaidersStandOut
