Croke and Malenovic Lead Drovers to Victory Against OLLU

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Monday afternoon, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (3-1-2, 0-0 SAC) used a pair of second half goals to claim a 2-1 victory against Our Lady of the Lake University (0-2, 0-0 RRAC).

Neither team was able to find the back of the net in the opening 45 minutes of the contest, but the Drovers quickly took the lead following halftime as Justin Croke scored his fifth goal of the season. Croke's goal was assisted by Leonardo Schneider in the 46^th minute.

OLLU was able to strike for the equalizer in the 68^th minute, but the Drovers were able to reclaim the lead in the 76^th minute on Matija Malenovic's third goal of the season, assisted by Dani Suarez.

As a team, USAO attempted 15 shots, with 11 being on goal, while OLLU attempted 11 shots, with five being on target. The Drovers committed 12 fouls and the Braves were whistled 10 times. 

 Angel Diaz improved his record to 3-1-2 this season as he stopped four of the five shot that came his way. 

Shortly after the conclusion of Monday's contest against OLLU, the Sooner Athletic Conference announced that Justin Croke was selected as the conference's Offensive Player of the Week after recording two goals, two assists, and six points in games against Ottawa University and Tabor College last week. The Irishman currently leads or is tied for the lead in the conference in goals (5), assists (5), and points (15). Among the NAIA rankings, Croke places at No. 10 in goals, tied for No. 1 in assists, and a tied for No. 4 in points.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will now head to Kansas for a non-conference contest at Sterling College on Saturday, September 9. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:00 PM CT in Sterling, Kan.

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