DeKALB | It wasn’t pretty, but it was effective.

The NIU men’s soccer team (4-2) ground out a pair of wins against two physical teams at the Adidas/Baymont Inn Invitational.

NIU picked up the game winner in the 50th minute in Friday’s 2-1 victory over Drake (3-3), and made a goal in the 18th minute in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Bradley.

“Those last 20 minutes, no soccer is being played,” said senior midfielder Justin McGrane. “It’s just kick it, and whoever can get up there and be the most physical team will win. Our grit and the way we battled was phenomenal.”

A pair of junior forwards teamed up for both NIU goals against Drake. Kurt Zastrow split the Drake defense twice off passes from Marcus McCarty.

“Kurt and I are roommates. I know what he’s thinking about all the time,” McCarty said. “We are really on the same page all the time. I knew he was going to make those runs.”

A physical Drake team constantly tried to play long balls over the top of the NIU back line.

A back and forth second half kept the game’s pace choppy.

“We have to be able to handle momentum,” said NIU coach Steve Simmons. “How you capitalize and handle the game management is crucial.”

Sunday’s game with Bradley (1-4) also evolved into a defensive struggle.

“These were two fun spectator games, but two tough games for coaches to watch,” Simmons said. “I told the team, don’t be too choosy about wins. If we can come up with different ways to get results well take it.”

Senior keeper Matt Corcoran turned away a penalty kick in the 22nd minute that was headed for the right post.

The diving keeper from Downers Grove was fully extended and slapped the ball away with his left hand.

“I read it off his foot,” Corcoran said. “I looked where he was standing, and there was a little guessing too.”

NIU managed to control most of the second half, winning balls that were played into the midfield and maintaining extended possessions.

James Nokes is a Sports Reporter for the Northern Star.