Statesmen One Goal Shy in Home Opener
William Penn University Athletics
Oskaloosa–William Penn outplayed its opponent Friday night, but unfortunately the scoreboard did not reflect that fact as the men’s soccer team fell 2-1 to St. Mary (Kan.) in the opener of the William Penn Classic.
The Statesmen (1-3) held a sizeable 19-10 edge in shots over the Spires, including 11 on goal, but squandered numerous opportunities in the team’s first home contest this fall.
St. Mary (1-2) got on the board first in the sixth minute and continued to hold that advantage until the early minutes of the second half. Then Tyler Mather (Jr., Des Moines, Iowa Western CC) came up with the equalizer, putting a rebounded shot past goalkeeper Alex Waite at the 57:53 mark.
The tie was not long-lived, however, with the visitors recording the game-winner in the 73rd minute and hanging out for their first victory of the year.
Mark Dryden (So., Arbroath, Scotland, Arbroath HS) had a strong offensive output of six shots, while Mather added five shots.
Sam Gurski (So., Beaumont, Texas, West Brook HS) posted six saves in the game.
Next: The Statesmen conclude the William Penn Classic Sunday by hosting non-conference foe Illinois College at 4 p.m.
