Greencastle, Ind.- The DePauw University men's soccer team converted on a free kick opportunity with just 16 seconds left in the first half to defeat Wittenberg University by a final score of 2-1, Wednesday night at Reavis Stadium.

With the win, the host Tigers improved to 8-5 overall and 3-2 in the North Coast Athletic Conference, while Wittenberg dropped to 5-7-1 on the year and 0-4 in NCAC play.

A rain-soaked turf increased the pace of play early in the first half as both teams struggled to gain a foothold. It was DePauw's Julian Gonzalez who was able to navigate the slick conditions and net the first goal. Gonzalez weaved his way in and out of Wittenberg defenders, scoring an unassisted goal in the 20th minute.

The visiting Tigers were able to tie the contest in the 39th minute when Brian Boutin blasted a shot that deflected off DePauw goalie, Jake Pezzuto, and found the back of the net.

With just under 30 seconds remaining in the half DePauw earned a free kick off a Wittenberg foul. Mitch Reavis booted a ball towards the far post where Andy Morrison headed it across the goal and found E.J. Moore who knocked in the pass.

Both teams stepped up the physical play in the second half as the host Tigers tallied six fouls and two yellow cards, while Wittenberg had eight fouls and one yellow card. As a result of the increased physicality, neither team was able to maintain steady possession or net a goal.

Wittenberg's James Van Artsdalen made seven saves in a losing effort and Pezzuto grabbed three saves in the win. The Tigers outshot Wittenberg by a 16-7 mark and held a 7-4 edge on corner kicks.

DePauw is back in action Saturday, October 18, when they travel to Oberlin for a 1:30 p.m. contest.