Central Rallies to Secure 2-2 Draw Against Grinnell

In a fiercely contested match at Springer Field on September 10, 2024, Central College’s men’s soccer team battled back from a two-goal deficit to earn a 2-2 draw against Grinnell. The match, attended by 62 fans, showcased resilience and skill from both sides.

Grinnell jumped out to an early lead, with Samuel Gojjam netting the opening goal in the 17th minute. Assisted by Soma Suzuki and Ezra Gould, Gojjam found the back of the net to put Grinnell up 1-0. Just before halftime, Grinnell extended their lead when Jake Brecknock scored in the 42nd minute, capitalizing on a setup from Dylan Maddux and Jaxon Willoughby.

Central struggled in the first half, managing only three shots compared to Grinnell’s nine. However, the second half told a different story. Central came out aggressively, and Trysten Vasquez pulled one back in the 49th minute with his first goal of the season, assisted by Max Lauman. With momentum shifting, Central kept pressing, and their efforts paid off in the 85th minute when Ian Greddell found the equalizer, assisted by Coleman Manuel.

Both teams had chances to claim victory, but the defenses held firm, with each goalkeeper recording one save. Central finished with 11 total shots to Grinnell’s 12, and Central dominated possession in the second half, controlling 59% of the ball.

The match saw three yellow cards, with two going to Central players and one to Grinnell’s Jack Pennachio. Despite the physicality, neither team was able to break the deadlock after Greddell’s late equalizer, and the match ended in a well-earned draw for both sides.

Central now stands at 2-1-1, while Grinnell moves to 1-1-2.