Walton scores lone goal of game.

September 8, 1998

NOTRE DAME, Ind. -- Freshman Shane Walton's (San Diego, Calif.) first-half goal just before halftime was all the 15th-ranked Notre Dame men's soccer team needed as the Irish remained unbeaten and improved to 3-0 on the season with a 1-0 victory over visiting Northwestern.

In a game thoroughly dominated by the Irish, Walton's fourth goal of the season with just under five minutes to play before halftime was chipped in from five yards out in front of the goal. The score was set up when senior Ben Bocklage (St. Louis, Mo.) crossed a pass to junior Ryan Cox (Broadview Hts., Ohio) who was standing in front of the box. Cox found Walton in front of the goal and the rookie turned and shot it past Northwestern goalkeeper Matt Keeler.

Notre Dame dominated the contest, outshooting the Wildcats 20-3 in the contest. The Irish did not allow Northwestern to get off a shot until midway through the second half. Notre Dame had several scoring opportunities in the first, but could not convert.

Irish goalkeeper Greg Velho (Longwood, Fla.) recorded his first shutout of the season and 22nd of his career in leading Notre Dame to the win. Velho came up with a big save on David Mooradian's shot from the top of the box with 25 minutes left to play in the contest.

The Wildcats, who fell to 2-2 on the seasn with the loss, had one other scoring chance late in the second half when Velho was caught outside the goal and Trevor Nelson's shot with an open net in front of him went over the crossbar.

Walton has now scored a goal for the Irish in every game and leads Notre Dame in scorng with four goals and two assist.

Notre Dame returns to action on Sunday, September 13 when the Irish play host to BIG EAST foe Pittsburgh at Alumni Field at 1:00 p.m.

Scoring Summary: ND: Shane Walton (Ryan Cox, Ben Bocklage) - 40:31

Scoring Summary

Shots: ND 20, NU 3
Corner Kicks: ND 8, NU 2
Goalie Saves: ND 1 (Velho - 1); NU 3 (Keeler - 3)
Fouls: ND 12, SU 18