FULTON, MO.— While the shutout streak for the Central College men's soccer team ended at just over 400 minutes, the winning streak advanced to a fifth-consecutive game as the Dutch flew past Westminster College (Mo.) 3-1.
           
The Dutch are now 5-0 for the first time since starting 15-0 in 2002 while the Blue Jays slipped to 1-4-1.
           
Forward Ian Meentemeyer (sophomore, Hartsburg, Mo., Southern Boone County HS) got the scoring started in the 16th minute, finding the back of the net for the second time this year. Forward Miguel Pina (junior, Chicago, Ill., Taft HS) added his second goal of the season 12 minutes later. The duo led the Dutch in scoring last season with a combined 19 goals.
           
"They don't feel like they have to be the difference-makers all the time because of the contributions we are getting from other players," coach Garry Laidlaw said. "They can play their game because they know the goals will come."
           
Westminster narrowed the margin to 2-1 with a tally at the end of the first half. Midfielder Bryce Leonard (senior, Williamsville, Ill.) added to an already stellar road trip by scoring his third goal in two days just past 72 minutes to put some insurance back on the scoreboard.
           
"I wasn't happy with the goal they scored late in the first half because I think it gave them some hope and energy going into the second half," Laidlaw said. "It was a really good test of character for us to score that third goal and not panic.
           
"Bryce is in a really good place with his confidence right now. He's relaxing and playing with his insticts. He's capable of doing great things and he has shown that the last two days."
           
Goalkeeper Salvador Salado-Herrera (freshman, Brooklyn Park, Minn., Park Center HS) picked up a fifth win, despite allowing his first goal in a Central uniform. He did gather in a pair of saves as well.
           
Central's final non-conference test is a home match Wednesday against Iowa Wesleyan University at 4 p.m.
           
"Our confidence is solid right now but it still can get better," Laidlaw said. "We know it's going to get harder. We feel good about where we are and it's our job to make sure we stay in a good place."