Men's Soccer blanks Niagara Knights 4-0 in exhibition

ST. CATHARINES, Ont. - The Brock University men's soccer team controlled the play for the majority of the contest en route at a 4-0 victory over the Niagara College Knights in exhibition play Wednesday night at home.

In his 26th season at the helm, Badgers head coach Bill Millar got a first glimpse at a core of the returnees and some of the top newcomers in full game mode Wednesday.

"Over the next three days during mini-camp we will have the opportunity to evaluate what we have this season," said Millar. "The roster is coming together as we prepare for the regular season homeopener next weekend versus UOIT who enters their first season in the OUA."

Leading the way for the Badgers versus Niagara was Erik Van Wissen who registered two goals with freshman Pedro Baros (Rio, Brazil) adding one and junior Andres Nimtsiv (Courtice, Ont.) answering on the penalty kick for the victory.

"Erik redshirted last season and came into training camp strong this season," said Millar. "He played very well for us in the game tonight adding two goals. Also having strong performances tonight were two local freshmen Kenji Nicks (St. Catharines, Ont.) and Kosta Krajisnik (Niagara Falls, Ont.)."

The Badgers defensive unit will be very strong in 2010 led by fifth year seniors Dan Valentini (Stoney Creek, Ont.) and Matthew Green (Richmond Hill, Ont.). Joining Valentini and Green on the backend will be a trio of sophomores in Aaron Walsh (Burlington, Ont.) Bobby Turnbull (Brantford, Ont.) and Malcolm Mings (Thorold, Ont.).

"Bobby and Aaron both had solid games tonight versus Niagara," said Millar. "Both had strong rookie seasons a year ago and will both be impact players for us this season."

In goal, all four goalies shared playing time with projected starter Ryan Toale playing the first 20 minutes for the victory.  

The Badgers will have two more days of their mini-training camp before taking on Centennial College this Saturday at home in exhibition action.