In a thrilling Highway 23 Derby, Marian Men's Soccer claimed their first traveling trophy with a 2-1 victory over Ripon. Zac Pfister scored early, but Ripon equalized shortly after. A crucial penalty kick save by Tyler Hall maintained Marian's hopes, and Jay Wolcott sealed the win with a goal late in the second half. This triumph highlighted Marian's dominance, now boasting a 5-1-0 record against Ripon in their last six encounters, and marked their return to the NACC Tournament after a two-season hiatus.

By the Numbers
  • Zac Pfister and Jay Wolcott scored, with Pfister netting the opener just 13 minutes into the game.
  • Marian improved to 5-1-0 against Ripon in their last six meetings.
  • Brayden Johnson was the team's offensive leader with 9 goals and 3 assists, achieving over 20 points in a season for the first time since 2022.
Yes, But

While the win was significant, Marian's recent draw against CUW in the NACC Tournament suggests areas needing improvement, particularly in scoring during high-pressure situations.

State of Play
  • Marian's victory not only secured the trophy but also demonstrated their competitive edge in the rivalry.
  • JT Sus's recognition as a CSC Academic All-District player highlights the team's balance of athletic and academic excellence.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Marian will aim to build on this momentum in future matches, with hopes of becoming a consistent contender in the NACC Tournament.

Bottom Line

This landmark victory not only showcases Marian's emerging soccer prowess but also sets the stage for future competitiveness, merging athletic milestones with academic achievements.