November 14, 1999

BIRMINGHAM, ALA. - Saint Louis University men's soccer team fell 4-0 to UAB in the finals of the Conference USA Tournament this afternoon at West Campus Field. The Blazers' four goals are the most by any team against the Bills this season.

The Blazers struck first when a throw in on the far sideline developed into a goalmouth scramble. Peter Byaruhanga tipped Justin Pratt's throw in to Josh Brinkley who drove the ball past a diving Paul Nagy in the 26th minute for the eventual game winner. The defensive miscue seemed to awaken the Billiken offense as SLU outshot UAB 12-6 in the first half. The Blazers had another similar opportunity with 11 minutes remaining in the half, but the point blank shot hit the cross bar.

The game was an aggressive one as both teams were physical throughout. Play in the midfield was rough as players struggled to control the critical middle third of the field. The Billikens had their offensive opportunities, but Blazers' goalkeeper David Clemente proved to be the difference in the game, stopping seven of the Billikens' 20 shots on the afternoon.

Billiken senior midfielder Jeff DiMaria was named Most Valuable Midfielder of the Tournament.

The Billikens will have to wait until Monday's NCAA Tournament selection show to find out their next opponent and site. The show will be televised at 8 p.m. central.

FINAL SCORE - UAB 4, SAINT LOUIS - 0

UAB 25:14 Brinkley (Pratt, Byaruhanga)
UAB 64:42 Monteiro (Smith)
UAB 86:05 Rey (Byaruhanga)
UAB 89:57 Byaruhanga (Pratt)

Shots: SLU- 20, UAB -16
Corners: SLU-5, UAB - 5
Saves: SLU- 0 (Nagy), UAB - 7 (Clemente)
Fouls: SLU-14, UAB 16
Offsides: SLU- 2, UAB - 2
Att: 1,700