PELLA, Iowa – The University of Dubuque men's soccer team had one final matchup today at the Central College Dutch and was a win away from an undefeated American Rivers Conference regular season. The Spartans would shutout the Dutch 2-0 to secure the perfect season in conference play with an unblemished league mark of 8-0. UD's last conference loss was on March 27 when they fell to Simpson 0-2. They have combined for a 14-1-1 conference mark in 2021.  UD finished the COVID spring 2021 schedule 6-1-1 in conference and the fall 2021 conference schedule 8-0-0.

In the first half, the Spartans would spend nearly 25 minutes in their attacking third and would manage to get 16 shots at an opportunity to score. Though the Spartans had many opportunities, they would only get one goal in the 12^th minute of the first half from Gloire Luwara off the assist from Peter Kimba. The Spartans would maintain a 1-0 halftime lead.

In the second half, the Spartans would play a defensive game, but would add another goal with under 10 minutes to play from once again Gloire Luwara off a pass from Joel Skog-Johansson to give the Spartans a 2-0 lead. The score would remain the same in the final minutes of play and the Spartans will be looking forward to the A-R-C tournament.

The Spartans dominated in shots by outshooting the Dutch 24-6. UD would  record 17 corner kicks compared to only five for the Dutch. Matt Marchiori would have a quiet day in goal with the shutout and would record one save in the win.

"I am extremely proud of our players and coaching staff for their hard work and determination which has resulted in winning the 2021 American Rivers Conference Championship in a perfect season," commented head coach Brad Johnson.  "Capturing back to back conference titles is a tremendous accomplishment and congratulations is truly in order for our players, coaching staff, medical staff, alumni, UD Soccer supporters, and fans!"

The Spartans regular season comes to an end and will be off until they host the American Rivers Conference tournament semifinals at Oyen Field on Wednesday, November 3. The opponent and time of kickoff have yet tto be determined.

"We are looking forward to continuing our success as we wrapped up the regular season and move into conference tournament play.  Earning the #1 seed in the tournament and being able to play at beautiful Oyen Field on the University of Dubuque's campus will be a great experience.  The boys are up for the challenge in front of them and we're excited to continue to accomplish their goals. Go Spartans!"