ELMHURST, Ill. – Carroll University men's soccer earned a hard-fought 1-0 road victory over Elmhurst on Wednesday night at Langhorst Field, improving to 6-6-1 overall and 3-2-0 in CCIW play. The Bluejays dropped to 4-9-2 (1-4-0 CCIW).
After a scoreless first half that featured limited chances—Carroll managed three shots to Elmhurst's two—the Pioneers broke through in the 80th minute. Matthew Meke delivered the decisive goal, his fourth of the season, finishing a setup from Sheridan Joseph to put Carroll ahead. The strike capped a second half where Carroll generated four shots and absorbed sustained pressure from Elmhurst.
Goalkeeper Uriel Garcia was outstanding, recording six saves to secure his fourth win of the year. Elmhurst outshot Carroll 8-7 overall and held a 3-1 edge in corner kicks, but Garcia's composure and Carroll's defensive organization preserved the clean sheet.
Meke led the attack with four shots on goal, while Joseph added the key assist off the bench. Carroll's midfield, anchored by Alec Behringer and Marti Solanelles, helped control possession late, despite Elmhurst's aggressive push that included five offsides and multiple set-piece opportunities.
The victory marks Carroll's third conference win and positions the Pioneers to climb the CCIW standings as the regular season enters its final stretch as they return home this Saturday for Alumni Day at 3:30 against North Park.