WINONA, Minn. — It was a thrilling home victory for the Saint Mary's men's soccer team (1-3-0) today, as the Cardinals secured their first win of the season in electrifying fashion. After trailing in the first half, they roared back with four second-half goals, earning head coach Leo Barbosa his first win at the helm.

The Cardinals outshot Dubuque 24-18, with six shots on goal.

In the first half, Dubuque took an early lead with a goal in the 11th minute and it seemed like they were in control. Saint Mary's was aggressive in their response, with multiple shot attempts from players like Seth Konik and CJ Tree, but were unable to find the back of the net.

Dubuque's Nic Hubbard made crucial saves, including stopping a well-placed attempt by Tree in the 30th minute. Despite the Cardinals offensive efforts, the half ended with Dubuque leading 1-0.

Then, things started to turn around.

The second half began with the Cardinals intensifying their offensive efforts, as evidenced by multiple corner kicks and shots on goal.

Ivan Ruiz, who netted his first career goal, equalized the score for the Cardinals in the 57th minute, assisted by Cohan Hare. The Cardinals continued their momentum with Francesco Cardone putting them ahead 2-1 in the 72nd minute by an impressive outside the box free kick. To keep this momentum going, it was followed by a goal from Caleb Gilbert, assisted by Gabe Le, in the 78th minute, extending their lead to 3-1 and getting the crowd on their feet.

The Cardinals netted another after a good penalty kick by Hare in the 88th minute. Dubuque managed to reduce the deficit with a penalty kick goal by Albin Lauridsen in the final moments, concluding the game at 4-2 in favor of the Cardinals.

Before this last minute goal, freshman Brode Jacbosen was a brick wall for the Cardinals making crucial stops in goal.

The Cardinals are back in action and continue their home stand on Wednesday, September 10th at 4:00 p.m. against Simpson.