Despite the rain and humidity, the Penn State men’s soccer team pulled out a victory against the visiting Ohio State Buckeyes 1-0 on Sunday, thanks to the 63rd minute goal by redshirt junior midfielder Kyle MacDonald.

But Sunday’s game was no ordinary game. It was the game dedicated to Mack Brady, the late son of Schreyer Honors College Dean Christian Brady. Mack Brady tragically passed away on Dec. 31, 2012 as a result of a blood infection. He was only eight years old and passed away just sixteen days before his ninth birthday.

The Nittany Lions played the game in memory of Mack, and their energy reflected the emotion of the day. In front of almost 2,000 fans, the Nittany Lions went back and forth with the Buckeyes. The game was a little more sloppy than usual, due to the soggy conditions, but Penn State’s big break came in the 63rd minute. Forward Connor Maloney played a pass from Mikey Minutillo, sending a back heel into the box. MacDonald broke on it, and buried the shot past Ohio State goalkeeper Alex Ivanov. The goal was the second of MacDonald’s Penn State career, and it was no coincidence that it was MacDonald who scored. Last year, MacDonald netted his first career goal as a Nittany Lion in the first ever Mack Brady game.

Penn State goalkeeper Andrew Wolverton made three saves during the contest and recorded his 28th career shutout. His effort was impressive, but the defense should be commended as well for keeping the Ohio State offensive attack at bay for a majority of the game.

Penn State, which improves to 6-0-1 on the season, is off to its best start since the 2000 campaign, when it began the year 7-0-0. The red-hot Nittany Lions, who are ranked No. 10 in the nation, should see their stock continue to rise in the rankings if their remarkable play continues.

Penn State is set to face off against Penn at Jeffrey Field on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. The Nittany Lions will be looking to stay in their current form and keep the momentum going against the Quakers.

If you’re interested in donating to the Mack Brady Soccer Fund, more information can be found here.