October 21, 1998

PROVIDENCE, R.I.— Providence midfielder Andy Bussman scored on a scramble in front of the net with only 11 minutes to play as Providence upset the Irish men’s soccer team today, 2-1, in Providence R.I. Notre Dame falls to 7-5-3 on the season and 3-4-2 in the BIG EAST, while the Friars improve to 6-8 overall and 4-4-0 in conference play.

Notre Dame jumped out to an early 1-0 lead when freshman Shane Walton connected on a crossing pass from Dustin Pridmore at 15:28 of the first half. It was Walton’s 10th goal of the season. Providence tied the game at 1-1 just before the half as Michael Eisenhut scored on a penalty shot at 36:56. The game remained tied until Bussman recorded the winning goal at 78:45.

It was Providence’s first win in four tries against the Irish. Previously, Notre Dame led the series 3-0-0 and had not allowed a Providence goal, outscoring the Friars 5-0 in the three previous meetings. Today, Providence outshot Notre Dame 15-8 as Friar goalkeeper Dan Pires made three saves in earning the win.

The Irish continue their road trip with a match against Boston College Saturday, Oct. 24, in Chestnut Hill, Mass. Match time is 11 a.m. (EST). The Eagles are 5-7-2 overall and 2-5-1 in the BIG EAST. The series is tied at 2-2 between the two schools.