Column: Soccer team down, but not out

The IU men’s soccer team lost a tough contest against UCLA Sunday in Bloomington, but I wouldn’t get too worried just yet.

There is a whole lot of soccer to play this season, and with ball control and recovery being consistently improved upon, we will not likely see a repeat of the Hoosiers’ Sunday performance.

Let me add that it took overtime for the then-No. 9 team in the country to defeat the Hoosiers.

Be encouraged, Hoosier soccer fans. These guys are good, and, being the show stoppers that they are, will no doubt be exciting to watch. Trust me, you will be happy that you did.

The Hoosier men’s soccer team entered the season with the No. 1 national ranking after capturing the national championship last season. There is no reason to think that this year will be any different.

From junior midfielder Dylan Mares, expect a big performance. With his speed and power, expect him to stand out every game.

Mares, like the rest of the men’s soccer team, will bring it each time he hits the field. I would suggest that the fans bring it as well.

Sure, that 1-0 defeat on Sunday was a tough pill to swallow, but the reality is that one loss does not automatically spell disaster for the rest of the season.

When a team is as talented as ours, it is difficult not to fully support it. Anticipate a much different showing when the Hoosiers travel to Birmingham, Ala., for a Friday matchup against the No. 18 ranked UAB.

Go to a game. Make some noise. Meet other fans. This is what Hoosier sports are all about.

I encourage every Hoosier to attend at least one soccer game. It’s like going to something that you have absolutely no idea of what to expect and then having the time
of your life.

You are there with other Hoosier fans who want nothing more than to see their team win — and that unites fans immediately.

Sure, we have football and basketball on campus, but IU is full of those sports that are seen as minorities. Don’t let unfamiliarity prevent you from attending and supporting one of these non-revenue sporting events.

If you think you are a Hoosier sports fan now, go to some of these non-revenue sport events. Then read this column where I’ll be reporting on one of those teams. You will quickly represent Hoosier Nation to the fullest extent possible.

I would expect for the Hoosiers to push the tempo early and try for shots on goal early and often.

The Hoosiers, who dropped to No. 8 in the national rankings after the defeat, will be looking to show the Auburn that they are still a team to be reckoned with.


Follow Hoosier columnist Patrick Dolly on Twitter @PatickDolly562.