ELGIN, Ill. – The Oakland City University men's soccer team opened its 2025 season Friday night at a neutral-site match hosted by Judson University, falling 2–1 to Clarke University in a competitive contest.
The Mighty Oaks created several scoring chances in the opening half, but Clarke capitalized first and carried a 1–0 lead into halftime.
Oakland City responded after the break, finding the equalizer in the 65th minute when junior midfielder Ross O'Brien calmly slotted home to bring the Oaks level at 1–1. The goal energized OCU, but Clarke reclaimed the lead in the 78th minute with what proved to be the decisive strike.
The Oaks pressed forward in the closing minutes, generating multiple opportunities but ultimately unable to find a second goal. Oakland City finished with 12 shots, four on target, while goalkeeper Jacob Robinson tallied six saves to keep his side within striking distance.
After the match, head coach Adam Sell emphasized both the frustration and the positives from the opener:
"Frustrating to not come away with something from the game with the chances we created. A lot of positives to take from our first game with half a new team and only three full training sessions."
The result drops Oakland City to 0–1–0, while Clarke improves to 1-0-1 The Oaks will look to regroup quickly as they continue their early-season schedule tomorrow against host Judson University.
