Defense Struggles in 2016 Opener

William Penn University Athletics

Oskaloosa–The duo of Nenad Markovic (Fr., Belgrade, Serbia) and Emmanuel Morris (Jr., Minneapolis, Minn.) were on their game in Saturday’s season opener, but it was not enough to lift the Statesmen men’s soccer team in a 4-2 non-conference loss to Calumet-St. Joseph (Ind.).

William Penn (0-1) held a 19-13 advantage in shots, including a 12-10 edge in the first half, but permitted goals in the second and 11th minute to fall behind 2-0 early.

Morris then trimmed the deficit in half at the 33:09 juncture. Markovic took the original shot, but it was stopped by the CCSJ goalkeeper. The ball bounced fortuitously to Morris, though, who put it away.

Morris then also had a foot in the tying goal as he centered a pass into Markovic who posted his first collegiate goal in the 41st minute. Markovic topped all players with 10 shots, including seven on goal.

Unfortunately, the visitors took the lead back with only nine seconds left until halftime and then added an insurance score midway through the second stanza.

Emmanuel Esparza (So., Posen, Ill., Physical Education (K-12)) recorded four saves against the four goals allowed.

The battle was a physical one, highlighted by 35 fouls (five yellow cards).

“We had too many individual mistakes that cost us at crucial times,” Head Coach Jaymee Highcock said. “We did show good character to get back into the game. We still have lots to work on, but we will learn and move forward. There is more to come from this team.”

“I would like to thank all of the people, including a great student section, who came out to support us today,” Highcock added.

Next Up: William Penn remains in Oskaloosa, hosting Hannibal-LaGrange (Mo.) in non-conference action on Tuesday, August 30 at 4 p.m.