Worcester, Mass. – Visiting Wheaton College answered an NCAA-record tying goal with two of their own in the first half to capture a thrilling 2-1 win over Clark University in New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) men's soccer action on Saturday afternoon.

Cougar sophomore Will Van Noppen (Providence, R.I.) provided instant fireworks when he scored his fourth goal of the season off of the opening touch, launching a shot from the center circle that sailed over the head of Wheaton goalkeeper Stefan Viragh. The goal which came just four seconds into the match ties the NCAA record for the fastest goal to start a match in Division III men's soccer history.

It marks the second time this season that Van Noppen has scored from the center circle. He scored four seconds into the second half in the season opening win over Colby-Sawyer.

The Lyons, who entered the match on a three-game losing streak, responded 20 minutes later when Yuri Moreira scored with help from Max Swanson to even the score.

Wheaton was back on the board in the 37th minute when Will Nesbitt flicked home a throw-in from Jake Wagner for the gamewinner.

The Lyons held a 13-7 edge in shots on the day and Viragh settled down after the initial goal and made a pair of saves. Ryan King (Brimfield, Mass.) turned back seven shots for Clark in defeat.

The Cougars, now 4-5-1, 1-1-1 in conference action returns to the field on Wednesday when they visit Lasell, while Wheaton hosts Brandeis on Wednesday as well.