Tanner Michalenko, Saskatchewan Sports Information Student Assistant
SASKATOON - A single goal was all that was needed for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies to defeat the visiting University of Lethbridge Pronghorns in the first game of the 2017 Canada West men's soccer season on Field 7 in PotashCorp Park in Saskatoon.
Third-year midfielder Marcello Gonzalez cracked the scoreless affair in the 59th minute, giving the Huskies a lead they wouldn't give up.
Saskatchewan maintained control of the ball throughout the first half and had a big chance in the 12th minute when the Huskies crossed-up Lethbridge keeper Matthew Vandervoort. But Huskie striker Tyler Redl hit the post.
Shortly following halftime in the 55th minute, the Pronghorns got their chance to get on the board. Kyle Angerilli was awarded a penalty kick after being taken down on a clear opportunity inside the box. Huskie keeper Patrick Pranger was able to make the save.
Four minutes later, Kwame Opoku sent the beautiful cross-pass to Gonzalez, who fired the ball up and over Vandervoort.
The Pronghorns put pressure on the Huskie defence for the remainder of the match, but despite the pressure couldn't find the equalizer.
Pranger finished the match making four saves in the shutout victory, while Vandervoort stopped three at the other end of the pitch. Saskatchewan outshot the 'Horns 10-7.
The teams will battle again Sunday at 2 p.m. on Field 7 in PotashCorp Park.