University Heights, Ohio - The DePauw Tigers picked up their second straight NCAC victory behind junior Braden Murphey's first career hat trick. The Tigers defeated the John Carroll Blue Streaks 3-0. DePauw moves to 7-2-3 (2-0-1) and JCU falls to 5-6-2 (1-1-0).
Murphey got the offense going for the Tigers with his first goal of the season coming in the 11th minute off a cross into the box from Sebastian Leon that was played to the foot of Murphey by Aidan Whitley. Murphey, a 2024 2nd Team All-NCAC selection, was not finished, netting his second goal in the 18th minute after being set up for a left-footed strike on another cross from Leon. After a 55-minute stalemate, Murphey broke away on a counter attack in the 73rd minute and struck a composed finish into the bottom right corner to complete his first career hat trick - claiming the win for the Tigers..
With his assist on the first goal, defender Aidan Whitley picked up his second point of the season. Leon's assist, his 3rd of the season, tied him with Roman Girandola for the team's leader in both points and assists with 9 points and 3 assists each. With the victory today DePauw now has 30 goals scored on the season.
Despite high scoring from the Tigers, both teams struggled offensively with six shots each but the finishing from Murphey proved to be the separating factor. Junior Goalkeeper Sam Ortner continued his great play this season with a two save and zero goals allowed performance in net. The Tigers finished the game with narrow edges over The Blue Streaks in corner kicks 7-6, fouls 8-9, and saves 2-1.
DePauw will finish fall break with two more matches against NCAC foes taking on Denison at home Wednesday, October 15th at 4 p.m. and Ohio Wesleyan away under the lights at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 18th.
