PELLA — Ian Meentemeyer (freshman, Hartsburg, Mo., Southern Boone County HS) was a constant presence on the attack for the Central College men's soccer team in a 3-2 triumph over Iowa Conference newcomers Nebraska Wesleyan University Tuesday afternoon.
An injury forced the freshman forward out of the Dutch (9-4-0 overall, 3-1 Iowa Conference) starting lineup for the first three conference games of the year. He made up for lost time in the victory over the Prairie Wolves (6-3-4, 2-3), scoring his sixth goal of the season and adding a pair of assists.
"He was a game-changer for us today," coach Garry Laidlaw said. "It's so good to have him back. He takes some of the pressure of our other strikers Miguel Pina (sophomore, Chicago, Ill., Taft HS) and Aroni Niykiza (sophomore, Cedar Rapids, Washington HS)."
Though he was limited to just one shot attempt, Laidlaw said Bryce Leonard (junior, Williamsville, Ill.) presence was felt offensively as well.
"He really made a difference with his energy," he said. "We feel good about getting a lot of attacking players back at the right time of the year."
Central started the scoring when Meentemeyer found Logan Hoefer (sophomore, Belleue, Neb., East HS) in the 34th minute.
"Logan's been playing well the last couple of games," "Ian chased the ball down in the corner, outwilled his opponent and did what he could to get a ball across. I'm really happy Logan was able to put one in the net."
After a Prairie Wolves goal tightened the margin to 2-1, Salvador Vilanueva (junior, Morris, Ill.)struck from long range to extend the lead back to 3-1.
"His finish was much needed at that time," Laidlaw said. "It was an excellent finish, he's got great technique."
The victory puts Central one step closer to a return to the Iowa Conference tournament. The program's 13-year streak ended a year ago and Laidlaw's team remains determined to correct that mistake.
"Until we're in, we're not celebrating anything," he said. "We're going to keep playing like we still need to earn points."
Central will host the Spartans from the University of Dubuque Saturday at 3 p.m. and will hold a senior day ceremony for the team's five seniors.
