Storm extend shutout streak to four, remain unbeaten

INDIANOLA, Iowa – Five different players scored goals, the defense turned in its fourth consecutive clean sheet and the Simpson men's soccer team beat Millikin 5-0 on Saturday night.

The Storm (4-0) scored four goals in the first half and cruised the rest of the way.

"I was pleased with our effort tonight," head coach Rick Isaacson said. "It was a great night for soccer and boys responded by playing their best match of the young season."

Mark Lahart needed just over three minutes to put Simpson on the board thanks to a nice run down the middle of the pitch.

Marcus Varnum made it 2-0 on his goal in the 23rd minute and Spencer Cook headed a great feed from Tyler Neumann only 34 seconds later for a 3-0 Simpson lead.

Cody Jacobson put the finishing touches on the first half fireworks, connecting on his third goal of the season.

Louis Joslyn scored his first goal of the season in the 55th minute, the only score of the second frame.

"We are becoming more dangerous in the attack with each game and I expect that trend to continue as we gain more experience," Isaacson said.

Goalkeepers Luke Aronow and Zach McEntee combined for the shutout, helping the 2012 squad become the only team in program history to start a season with four shutouts. Only two other times – stretches in 1997 and 1999 – have Simpson teams held opponents scoreless in four consecutive games.

"Our back four are growing up quickly and I'm proud of our fourth consecutive clean sheet," Isaacson said. "Kudos to our goalkeepers as well, both Luke and Zach have been steady, reliable and consistent."

The Big Blue (2-3) managed only eight shots, including two in the second half.

Simpson closes the weekend Sunday when it faces another foe from the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin, Illinois Wesleyan. The Titans beat Central 4-1 on Saturday.

Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.