(Kansas City, Mo.) – The Kangaroo men’s soccer squad picked up its first win of the season on Tuesday night, 1-0 over MidAmerica Nazarene, thanks to a high-energy second period.

UMKC (1-4) garnered its first shutout of the year and took a season-best 16 shots on the night. After a sluggish first half that saw the shot count tied at five, the ‘Roos picked up the intensity in the second half with higher pressure.

The Kangaroos tallied 11 shots in the final stanza, and got on the board in the 56^th minute thanks to a play set up by freshman Konner Knoll. He beat his defender on the right wing, and slotted a cross past the six-yard box that junior forward David Sarabia tapped in. It was Sarabia’s sixth career game-winning goal.

The ‘Roos had a few other scoring opportunities in the final period, one by junior midfielder Tom Black, and another by freshman forward Jordan Rideout.

The Pioneers had a couple close long-range chances from Kalev Saarna, who hit the crossbar in the first half, and the post in the second period.

Sophomore goalkeeper Kyle Martin posted his first career win and shutout on the night, while making four saves.

The ‘Roos will head out on the road for the next three games, starting this Saturday with a game at Central Arkansas at 4:00 p.m. in Conway.

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