WAUKESHA, Wis. – The Carroll University men's soccer team defeated the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Blugolds tonight in a thriller at Schneider Stadium. The Pios picked up their first overtime win of the season, winning by a decision of 2-1. Anthony Buffington scored the game winning PK in the 99^th minute to grab the victory.
 
The Pioneers (6-1, 0-0 CCIW) were put to a test in their final non-conference game before CCIW play begins next week. Carroll put up 19 shots against the Blugolds, including four in overtime. Parker Nimmer led the way with three shots. It was a physical night for both teams, with Eau Claire finishing with 22 fouls to Carroll's 18. Seven yellow cards were shown against both teams and an ejection on the Blugolds came for referee assault. Carroll came up with three saves in the game, including a game saving team save by Ethan Kratzer in the second half.
 
After a scoreless first half, the Pioneers were winning the possession battle 56% to 44%. Carroll broke through with the first score of the game on Adrian Komperda's charging header from a Ryan Coughlin corner kick in the 67^th minute. The blugolds kept their foot on the gas even after playing down a man, scoring the equalizer in the 89^th minute.
 
Nimmer had two shot opportunities early in the overtime period, but they were blocked away. The final yellow card of the night came from the penalty inside the box. Buffington went to his right and finished high left, fooling the goalkeeper.
 
Carroll looks to keep its winning streak alive heading into their first CCIW game in two seasons. The Pioneers travel to Augustana on Saturday, September 25, for an afternoon matchup with the Vikings. The Pios last played the Vikings in Rock Island, falling in a heartbreaking overtime loss.