WPU Rallies for Season-Opening ‘W’
Oskaloosa–It was a great start to the 2014 season for the Statesmen men’s soccer team as it defeated Central Methodist (Mo.) 2-1 in non-conference play Tuesday.
William Penn (1-0) held a slight 12-10 advantage in shots in a showdown that featured 42 fouls and nine cards (eight yellows, one red).
After a scoreless first period, the Eagles got on the board first in the 52nd minute, but returning all-conference performer Angelo Kelly (Jr., Ottumwa, Iowa, Physical Education) showed his strength over ten minutes later as he dribbled down the right side of the field, past two defenders before finally slipping the ball to Andrew Valett (Jr., Davenport, Iowa, Undecided). The junior newcomer finished off the ball to knot the contest at 1-1 at the 62:13 mark.
Just over five minutes later in the 68th minute, Kelly also helped out on the eventual game-winner as his shot attempt went wide and Yordan Rivera (Jr., Bothell, Wash., Physical Education) put it away amidst a crowded box.
The defense got better as the night drew on and was able to keep the visitors from tallying the equalizer near the end. Mason Bandy (Sr., Calgary, Alberta, Biology) headlined the defensive unit with seven saves.
Next Up–William Penn travels to Seward, Neb. Saturday to face Concordia for a non-conference matchup at 4 p.m.