GALESBURG, Illinois - The Knox Prairie Fire men's soccer team were victorious this Friday against the Lawrence University Vikings by a final total of 3-0. After winning this semi-final match of the Midwest Conference Tournament, the Prairie Fire are one win away from making the NCAA Division III men's soccer Tournament.

The Prairie Fire made waves early on, with close shots coming from Joey Dorgan, Jr. and Raphael Adeyemi giving the team a shot of confidence. Knox's defense settled in magnificently, much like the women's game. On the other end, Knox's offense enjoyed great passing and teamwork, which helped them put tremendous pressure on Lawrence's goal throughout the half. Even with their hard work, both teams ended the half on level terms.

Determined not to let the stalemate drag out any further, Knox made a strong offensive push in an attempt to break the game open. They were rewarded for their physical play when they were fouled in Lawrence's penalty area, giving Dorgan the opportunity to convert a penalty kick in the 64th minute and give Knox the game's first goal. A deserved result for their gritty performance, the Prairie Fire were not satisfied to rest on their laurels, Luis Silva doubled Knox's lead in the 69th minute with a powerful strike. Despite this killing any hopes for Lawrence, Lucas Piqueras scored another goal in the 81st minute to add an exclamation point to the outstanding day for Knox soccer.

"We aren't done yet," said head coach Brian O'Connor. "We have to come to play tomorrow against a tough Cornell team."

Knox will try to win their first Midwest Conference Tournament since 2018 when they play Cornell College this Saturday at 2:00 p.m.