INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - Creighton (8-3-3) secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Butler (5-9-1) on Saturday afternoon at the Butler Bowl. Omar Ramadan and Miguel Arilla powered the Bluejays' attack in a match that showcased Creighton's offensive prowess.
Ramadan opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a precise strike, setting the tone for the Bluejays. Arilla doubled Creighton's advantage in the 26th minute off an assist from Ramadan. Ayden Kokoszka extended the lead to 3-0 in the 41st minute before Butler's Ryan Hannosh pulled one back in the 42nd minute, assisted by Adam Watson.
The first half was dominated by Creighton's attacking movements, with the Bluejays recording eight shots before the break. Butler struggled to contain Ryusei Shimonishi and Bautista Rossi, who consistently threatened down the flanks. The visitors earned three corner kicks in the opening 45 minutes, while Butler managed just one.
Butler showed more attacking intent after halftime, with Brendan Cunningham and Josemir Gomez creating several chances. The Bulldogs' tactical adjustment led to increased pressure, forcing Creighton goalkeeper Brian Edelman into three crucial saves. The match's intensity was reflected in the cards shown, with Manolo Ferreres and Lucas Cavalcante receiving yellows for unsporting behavior.
The final statistics highlighted Creighton's superiority, as they outshot Butler 20-14, with four shots on target compared to Butler's five. The Bluejays dominated set pieces with five corner kicks to Butler's two. Both teams battled hard in the midfield, resulting in five yellow cards total - three for Creighton and two for Butler.
Omar Ramadan was the standout performer, contributing a goal and an assist while creating numerous chances throughout the match. Miguel Arilla's clinical finish demonstrated Creighton's attacking efficiency, while Butler's goalkeeper Matthew Hudson made several important interventions despite conceding three goals.
Creighton's tactical approach focused on quick transitions and wing play, with Shimonishi and Rossi stretching Butler's defense. The Bulldogs attempted to counter through the middle, with Bernardo Raposo and Sam Pitts-Eckersall showing moments of promise in central areas.
The victory extends Creighton's strong run of form, following their recent 2-0 win over Xavier and draw with Villanova. Butler's struggles continue as they've now won just once in their last three matches, though they showed fighting spirit in the second half comeback attempt.
Both teams made strategic substitutions throughout the match, with Butler making five changes at halftime in an attempt to change the game's momentum. Creighton managed their lead effectively in the final twenty minutes, with Martin Herrera and Edward Morales helping to secure the midfield.
Looking ahead, Creighton will host Seton Hall on November 1 at 5:00 PM, while Butler travels to face UConn on November 1 at 7:00 PM. The Bluejays' victory strengthens their position in the conference standings, while Butler will need to regroup quickly to maintain their postseason hopes.