WAUKESHA, Wis. - Carroll University men's soccer earned a gritty 1-0 victory over Augustana on Saturday afternoon at Schneider Stadium, improving to 4-5-1 overall and 1-1-0 in CCIW play. The Pioneers broke through late in a match defined by defensive intensity and timely saves.

After a scoreless first half that featured five Carroll shots and three from Augustana, both teams ramped up the pressure after the break. Carroll goalkeeper Uriel Garcia delivered three crucial second-half saves to keep the Vikings off the board, including back-to-back stops in the 53rd minute. Augustana's William Gabrielsson was equally sharp, turning away six shots overall.

The decisive moment came in the 79th minute when senior midfielder Matthew Meke found the net for his second goal of the season. Marti Solanelles set up the play with a well-placed assist, and Meke calmly finished to give Carroll the lead. The Pioneers nearly doubled the margin minutes later, but Gabrielsson denied attempts from Solanelles and Gregory Beres to keep Augustana within striking distance.

Carroll outshot Augustana 14-10, including a 7-3 advantage in shots on goal. Solanelles led the attack with four shots and one assist, while Sheridan Joseph and Iskander Sharipov added quality chances. The Pioneers also held a 5-7 deficit in corner kicks but maintained composure defensively, limiting Augustana's best looks despite the Vikings' late surge.

The match grew tense in the closing minutes, with three yellow cards issued—two to Carroll and one to Augustana—but the Pioneers held firm to secure the clean sheet. Garcia finished with three saves for his second win of the season.

With the victory, Carroll moves back to .500 in conference play and builds momentum heading into a challenging stretch. The Pioneers return to action next week at Carthage on Wednesday at 7pm as they will be looking to extend their winning ways.