The Wisconsin men's soccer team (1-4-2 Big Ten, 6-8-5 Overall) saw their season come to an end at the hands of Michigan (4-2-1, 9-8-1) 1-0, with the one decisive goal coming from Wolverine's freshman forward James Murphy in the 68 minute. The Badgers were shut out for the ninth time this season.
While it was yet another stout defensive performance for Wisconsin, the offense was unable to put a goal on the board when it mattered most. Michigan outshot the Badgers 15-8.
Freshman midfielder Drew Conner and senior midfielder Jerry Maddi recorded the only two shots on goal for the Badgers. Junior midfielder Nick Janus also had a powerful shot just skid off the crossbar in the second half.
Freshman goalie Chase Rau ended his impressive first year with a record that does not tell the whole story (4-7-5). Rau was the first Wisconsin player ever to win three defensive player of the week awards. He had four saves in the game yesterday. One of Rau's four wins came against Michigan in Madison where he made six crucial saves to secure the 2-1 win.
Senior defenseman Kyle McCrudden is the only one of the Badger's three captains who will not be returning. McCrudden, along with junior defenseman Blake Succa recorded yellow cards this game.
Against Michigan, the youthful Badgers started three freshman, two sophomores, four juniors, and two seniors.
Michigan will move on in the tournament to play the hosting Northwestern Wildcats on Friday. In the other semi-final, Michigan State, who upset Indiana, will play number one seeded Penn State. The automatic bid to the NCAA tournament and the winner of the Big Ten will be decided on Sunday in Evanston Ill.
