In their last five matches or so, the NIU men’s soccer team ran into a little bit of an injury bug.

Goalie Joe Zimka (quadriceps), midfielder Kyle Knotek (hip flexor) and defender Chris Rufa (stitches) all missed time over the last two weeks. But all three are now healthy and playing.

Zimka’s return now gives the Huskies two capable goalies, along with Brian Van Buren, and coach Steve Simmons has said he feels fortunate to have two backstops of their caliber. Zimka got the start against the Zips, posting a shutout.

“Joe did a good job in goal,” Simmons said. “We were lucky to have two quality keepers available for the match. Their combined talents will continue to be a real boon for us down the stretch.”

The Huskies also welcomed back Knotek’s energy and toughness, as well as Rufa’s senior leadership.

Extra Rest

The Huskies get an extra opportunity to rest over the next two weeks.

They had one match last weekend – a 0-0 tie against Akron – and have only one match this weekend.

NIU usually plays two matches in a weekend; either a Friday-Saturday or a Friday-Sunday format. But having only two matches in two weekends will help give rest to a team that has seen six of its 13 matches go to overtime.

Sizing Up The Bulls

NIU’s next match against MAC member Buffalo will be key going down the stretch. The Huskies are currently 1-0-1 in MAC play, but the Bulls are ahead with a record of 2-0.

The Bulls are unbeaten in their last four matches, winning three of those matches and playing to a 3-3 tie with No. 14 Saint Louis. Buffalo scored game-tying goals twice against the Billikens, including one with eight seconds remaining. Buffalo is accustomed to coming from behind in matches this season.

Of the 17 goals scored by the Bulls this season, 14 have been in the second half. Sophomore forward Dan Bulley leads both Buffalo and the MAC with five goals scored this season.