Trent Remmich scored 2 goals tonight to lead MNU to a 2-1 victory over #24 ranked Graceland University in the opening round of the Heart of America Conference tournament. His 2nd goal was a stunning free kick from 23 yards out with just 12 seconds left on the clock. In the process, Remmich broke the MNU single season goal scoring record. His tally now stands at 24 goals on the season.
The game was played in miserable conditions. Driving rain pounded the field the entire game, but Graceland's natural grass field held up considerably well. An investment into a drainage system for the field by GU was the saving grace for this game. MNU went up 1-0 early in the first half after the Yellowjackets were called for a hand ball in the box. Remmich calmly dispatched the ensuing penalty kick to put the Pioneers up. Reminiscent of the game a couple of weeks ago it did not take Graceland long to equalize. Just one minute later they scored on a set piece to tie the game.
The second half was a back and forth affair with each team creating multiple scoring chances. MNU's Chris Eriksson had another stellar performance in goal with several key saves to keep the game all knotted at 1. Remmich's game winning goal was set up by a Graceland foul on
Michael Shadfar with 25 seconds left before overtime would have been necessary.
With the win, MNU (11-7-1, 3-4) will now head to Marshall, MO on Wednesday night to take on #1 seed Missouri Valley (14-1-1, 6-0-1). Valley won the regular season meeting 1-0.
