Wheaton, Ill. - The Thunder men's soccer team played its first countable NCAA Division III contest in 670 days on Wednesday night as Wheaton hosted Hardin-Simmons University at Joe Bean Stadium. The hosts utilized two early first-half goals in securing a 2-0 victory against the Cowboys (0-1). Wheaton begins the season with a 1-0 record. The Thunder travel to Marian (Wis.) on Saturday afternoon.

Wheaton controlled the pace of play early in the match and the Thunder attack paid off early. Senior Michael Martens came running into the goal area near the far post and received a well-placed cross from Silas Galvao (PICTURED LEFT). Martens put the ball into the net to give the hosts a 1-0 lead just 4:39 into the match.

Wheaton continued to control the action following its early go-ahead goal. Galvao put two nice moves on the Cowboys' defense inside the penalty box and was taken down by a hard tackle. The Thunder senior was awarded a penalty kick that he converted to extend Wheaton's lead to 2-0 at the 14:52 mark of the match.

Wheaton out-shot the guests 8-7 in the first half and led Hardin-Simons 2-0 at halftime. The hosts maintained control in the second half as the Thunder held an 11-1 advantage in shots in the final 45 minutes.

Thunder goalkeeper Hasten Biddlecome made five saves for the Thunder in 90 minutes of work tonight. Hardin-Simmons netminder Reid Applewhite made three saves and allowed two Thunder goals.

Wheaton out-shot the Cowboys 19-8 tonight, with each team collecting five shots on goal. Hardin-Simmons was awarded five corner kicks and the Thunder had four.

The victory tonight marked the first college coaching win for Wheaton's interim head coach, John Gosling (PICTURED RIGHT).