No. 24 Michigan State men’s soccer has started the season 4-0 for the first time in nine years. The Spartans continued their streak against Niagara, beating the Purple Eagles 4-1 in a dominant performance while bringing their goal tally to 16 in four games.

“It’s been a really great start to the season; it’s been really fun,” sophomore midfielder Peter Soudan said. “We’ve just been playing high-flying soccer, scoring a lot of goals, but we know we can’t get too high.”

The Spartans are ranked for the first time in three years. With newfound expectations and confidence, MSU is making it look easy, albeit against lesser opponents.

MSU controlled the match from the opening whistle, maintaining possession in the final third and creating chances at a high rate. Recording 13 shots in the first half, MSU recycled the ball whenever a chance didn’t appear to keep the pressure on the Purple Eagles. Niagara soaked up the pressure and allowed the Spartans to attack while attempting to break up their momentum with heavy fouling. The Purple Eagles racked up 19 fouls, giving MSU plenty of chances to capitalize on set pieces. MSU responded in kind, recording 13. 

“It’s a gift to be able to score, assist and just play the game I love,” Soudan said. “The biggest thing is we’re all unselfish and playing for each other. We want that extra pass to give the guy the best chance to score and we don’t really care who scores.”

The Spartans found their opener through sophomore defender Conner O’Keefe, who forced the ball over the line following a dangerous free kick from senior forward Richie Ludwig in the 24th minute.

Soudan doubled MSU’s lead in the 31st minute with a neat finish after quick build-up play by the Spartans. Junior midfielder Andrew Darakdjian played the crucial ball into Soudan’s path for a smooth strike. 

Head coach Damon Rensing said Soudan, in his second year at MSU as the reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year, has given the team a lift and contributed to their attacking success. He also recognized returns from injury by Darakdjian and junior forward Mohamed Saad as factors in their increased goal output.

“They were physical, they were making it hard for us and sitting back deep,” Soudan said. “The biggest thing from our coaches is to keep it patient, keep the ball moving; it’ll come.”