Apparently, the men's soccer team knows how to get physical.
Their 1-1 double-overtime tie against Western Michigan University Sunday was interrupted by 51 total fouls, eight yellow cards and three red cards, and was capped off by a post-match fight between WMU's Andy Fisher and UB's Dave Pidgeon.
The Bulls were handed a red card in the 90th minute of play and were forced to play both of overtime sessions with a man down. Even with the disadvantage, the squad was able to keep Western Michigan, who took five overtime shots, from putting a ball in the net.
UB's two other red cards were issued during the fight after the game had ended. As a result of the cards, Dave Pidgeon and Geoff Thompson had to sit out last night's conference game versus Northern Illinois.
The Bulls gained no ground in the division, but keep an even record, standing at 6-6-2 overall (1-3-1 MAC), while Western Michigan took their first tie to bring their record to 5-10-1 overall (1-3-1 MAC).
Junior midfielder Geoff Thompson gave the Bulls the lead with a goal 34:13 into the game. The goal, his first of the season, came on a pass from junior forward Jenton Esworthy, who connected while Thompson was charging. Thompson scored from 15 yards out after beating the keeper on a one-on-one.
Buffalo's lead did not last long, however, as Western Michigan answered back with only two seconds left in the first half on a volley inside the right post by Tony Moucoulis. The Broncos' Scott Duhl assisted on the play.
Buffalo characteristically held the advantage in shots, leading Western Michigan 12-9, but were unable to convert on many occasions and landed just one shot in the net.
Junior Brian Wozniak played the entire game in goal for Buffalo, stopping two shots on nine attempts. Western Michigan goalkeeper Ian Spooner had only one save, and allowed one goal.
UB will close out the regular season with a home match against St. Francis University (Pa.) on Friday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Compiled by Beat Reporter Tai Khandaker.
