NIU’s soccer team (3-0) will face a true test this Saturday when it travels to the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay for a 2 p.m. match.

“It’s going to take a total team effort,” said Huskie coach Willy Roy. “Everybody is going to have to play a good game. If we get by this test without a loss, I’ll really be happy for the team.”

NIU is 4-10-5 against Wisconsin-Green Bay despite last year’s 3-1 triumph over the Phoenix at NIU.

“That was a very exciting game. Both teams had very good scoring opportunities,” stated Roy.

Wisconsin-Green Bay is atop the Big Central Soccer Conference standings with a 2-0 record after defeating SIU-Edwardsville and Quincy College.

The Phoenix erupted for three goals in the final six minutes of overtime in Edwardsville to post a 5-2 victory on September 1. In the Quincy game, the Phoenix shut out the Hawks and only allowed one shot on goal.

The Phoenix received two goals and one assist from both Mark McIntosh and Gerard Lagos, and goals from Mark Biebel, Goran Kralj and David Sollie in thier victories.

oy said the Phoenix are strong in the midfield area and will probably try to catch NIU asleep. The defense is solid, and UW-GB has a very quick forward.

“Unless you learn to mix it up with them, you will never win a game,” Roy said. “I think we are pretty even with them. The only difference is that they are playing at home.”