For the first time since 2006, The University of Akron men’s soccer team was unable to come home with the Mid-American Conference championship, losing 4-3 in penalty kicks in the semifinal round of the MAC Tournament to Western Michigan last Friday. The Zips (13-3-4), however, will take on Northwestern (10-4-4) this Thursday at First Energy Stadium-Cub Cadet Field in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Kick off is slated for 7:30 p.m.