OLIVET NAZARENE DOMINATES VITERBO 5-1 TO STAY UNBEATEN IN CONFERENCE PLAY

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (9-2-1, 4-0-0) secured a decisive 5-1 victory over Viterbo (6-3-2, 3-1-0) on Wednesday night.

The first half began with Olivet Nazarene (IL) quickly establishing control. Daniel Martinez opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, assisted by Adrian Kang Hagman. The home team continued to create offensive pressure, resulting in several attempts on goal.

Kingsley Kanu extended the lead to 2-0 at the 30th minute, with Thaqi providing his second assist of the half. Maintaining momentum, Thaqi himself found the net in the 36th minute, assisted by Martinez, pushing the advantage to 3-0. Olivet Nazarene closed the half firmly in control with a 3-0 lead.

The second half began with Olivet Nazarene capitalizing on their momentum, as Thaqi scored in the 64th minute with an assist from Ali Sillah, extending the lead to 4-0. Viterbo responded with a goal by Joaquin Eichhorn in the 73rd minute to narrow the gap. However, the home team quickly reasserted control, with Stanley Hooker finding the back of the net in the 78th minute, assisted by Noa Norton, bringing the score to 5-1.

As the half progressed, Olivet Nazarene maintained their lead, while Viterbo's efforts to regain footing were frustrated by the home team's defense and strategic plays. The match concluded with Olivet Nazarene firmly ahead, securing a 5-1 victory.

Thaqi recorded two goals and two assists, leading the team with six shots, four of which were on goal. Kanu scored the game-winning goal, finding the net with his only shot of the match. Martinez added a goal and an assist, converting his sole shot attempt. Bucher contributed with an assist, enhancing the team's offensive efforts.

Olivet Nazarene (IL) improved to 9-2-1 overall and 4-0-0 in conference play following the win. Viterbo fell to 6-3-2 overall and 3-1-0 in conference competition after the match.

—ONU—

*Contact: Annabel Murley, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, almurley@olivet.edu