Senior midfielder Jeff Ricondo scored in the 84th minute to propel the MSU men’s soccer team past previously-unbeaten Butler in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday.
The Spartans (13-7-1) now have won two straight tournament games after ending the regular season on a five-game winless streak.
The Bulldogs (16-1-3) pressed the Spartans for most of the game, but were unable to get a shot past senior goalie Avery Steinlage, who made several spectacular saves.
MSU managed only two shots on goal on six shots, while Butler had four shots on goal and 15 overall shots.
This is the first time the Spartans have advanced past the second round since 1968, when they won a co-national championship.
MSU will play Sunday at the winner of Sunday night’s matchup between No. 4 seed North Carolina and Georgetown.
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
