After a slow start to the season, UK men’s soccer (4-2-1) has found recent success, winning three straight matches and tying Furman on Friday.

That success will be tested on Tuesday when the Cats face No. 9 Louisville at the Bell Soccer Complex.

Louisville (3-1-1) is currently on a two-game winning streak after defeating Boston College 3-2 in overtime on Friday.

The Cardinals’ strength comes from their backfield, led by senior goalkeeper Joachim Ball. The German-born player has recorded 18 saves and three shutouts on the season. Ball will challenge the UK attackers to be accurate with their shots, as they are shooting a .319 shot-on-goal percentage on the season.

One UK forward who will be looking to respond to Louisville’s defense is senior Justin Laird. Laird leads the team with two goals on the season. He scored the game-winning goal last Tuesday to defeat Xavier 1-0 in overtime.

The Cats lead the in-state rivalry series against the Cardinals with a record of 10-5-4. UK won 1-0 in the last meeting between the two in Louisville in 2012.

STAFF REPORT