The Riverland men’s soccer team recorded their first victory in school history over Century College of White Bear Lake when they won 3-1 at Wescott Athletic Complex Friday.

In a game where strong winds were a major factor, the stiff breeze helped RCC (9-4 overall) score the go-ahead goal in the 58th minute. A clearance kick by Century’s keeper was blown back towards him, who couldn’t stop it and Dante Ortiz took possession and fired it into the net.

“Century is one of the premier community college men’s soccer teams in our division and region. For three years, we have aspired to reach their level of excellence. This was an important victory for our program,” said RCC assistant coach Troy Stegenga. “This has been a tiring week for head coach Soner Dogan. His brother back in Turkey is terminally ill, and his sister called to tell coach to head home immediately. Coach Dogan only had time at practice before the game to address the team and deliver a life lesson for us. It was obvious to me that our players really wanted to win this one for coach. That was the most inspired 90 minutes of soccer we’ve played all season.”

RCC keeper Roberto Torres made nine saves in the first half as RCC was out-shot 15-1 and the Blue Devils were down to 10 players after a player was ejected with a red card for rough play. The Blue Devils tied the game when Rafael Bellon put one through on an assist from Pedro Herrera.

RCC’s last score came on goal from Rolando Rubio found Herrera for a breakaway goal in the 63rd minute.

Torres finished with 11 saves for RCC, which was out-shot 22-12.