HAMILTON, Ont. -  A dramatic penalty late in the game gave the men's soccer team an impressive win today against the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks. Both teams were closely-matched, showing their skill and resiliency on offense. 

The first half saw Laurier dominate with a proactive offensive approach. McMaster took some time to get into the game, but steadily picked up the pace and carried on that energy into the second half. Midfielder Jacobo Cordon Cruz almost opened up the scoring in the 51st minute, with a shot hitting the crossbar. The game grew more intense as the clock started to wind down. Laurier created good chances, but the Marauders defense stood their ground, led by goalie Ethan Cagalj who made some crucial saves.

Finally, in the 80th minute, McMaster forced a penalty and took the lead. Defender Damiano Refosco scored his first goal of the season in fashion, blasting the ball to the right and fooling the Laurier goalie into diving the wrong way. Rather than remain on the back foot, the Marauders continued to attack in the final ten minutes, while still staying disciplined on defense and securing the win.

McMaster's men's and women's teams are now 4-0 altogether against the Golden Hawks. Hopefully this impressive sweep will give them the confidence they need this Friday against York, who sit right behind McMaster in the OUA West standings.