This article was originally published prior to June 2, 2013. Due to a change in the content management systems, the initial publication date in not available. 

Led by the inspired play of senior captain David Russell, the Baker University men’s soccer team went to Portland, Ore., and brought home two victories against top ranked teams, head coach Alan Koch said.

“David Russell held our midfield together in both games,” Koch said. “He was definitely an inspirational leader for this team.”

On Friday, Baker won its first game of the year beating Simon Fraser University 1-0.

“We played very hard as a team,” Koch said. “It was a relatively physical game, but our guys hung in there. We lost twice to Simon Fraser at nationals in previous years, so it was a big day to get our first win against them.”

On Sunday afternoon, the Wildcats got into an early 1-0 hole against Concordia University, but battled back scoring two goals before the half and eventually winning 2-1.

“This game against a top 25 team was an absolute battle,” Koch said. “They were an extremely physical team. Playing on their home field, our guys didn’t shy away from the competition and took care of business.”

Senior Marty Johnston scored both goals for the Wildcats while nursing an injured hamstring.

“It was nice to score in such a big game,” Johnston said. “It just feels good to get a win and have things start going our way.”

In the 33rd minute, Johnston took a pass from Russell and tied the game. Johnston didn’t wait long to give the ‘Cats the lead, scoring the eventual game-winning goal two minutes later in the 35th minute of the game.

Senior goalkeeper Bret Clark kept Baker in the match recording six saves against Concordia, Koch said.

Russell said he hopes these wins against great competition will help his team elevate its play.

“We need to carry this type of play into our upcoming games,” Russell said.

The Wildcats faced Ottawa University Thursday. Results were unavailable at press time.

Men’s soccer will next compete against Lindenwood University at 4 p.m. Wednesday in Baldwin City.