DUBUQUE, Iowa – It was the season opener in 2024 for the University of Dubuque men's soccer team as they hosted Wheaton College on Friday night. The Spartans relied on grit and determination down the stretch as they held on for a thrilling 1-0 over the Thunder. The start of the new season also the meant the first game for new head coach Andrew Mathys as he was able to notch his first win as head coach for the Spartans. The win last night was also the 200th in program history. 
 
The game started off like a track meet as both teams started off flying up and down the field. Defense ruled the day as each team got good looks to score. The Spartans were finally able to pull through late in the first half in the 35th minute on a header from senior Gavin Wooldridge which hit off of the post for his first goal of the season off a pass from fellow senior Zach Floss. After a couple fouls committed by the Spartans, they found themselves down a man playing with only ten players for the final 30 minutes of the game. Despite being down a player for most of the second half, the Spartans buckled down and played outstanding defense as the Thunder threatened to score for the final 20 minutes of the game with the Thunder in their attacking zone. Senior goalkeeper Matt Marchiori came up with huge saves down the stretch finishing the night with seven total saves. Two of his seven saves came within the span of two minutes, one in the 87th minute and the other in the 88th minute to hold off a strong Thunder scoring push to complete the 1-0 shutout. 
 
The Spartans will return home to Oyen Field on Tuesday, September 3 as they host Lawrence University. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.