Eagles soccer records first draw after double overtime

Cody McLemore puts the ball into play against Rogers State on Oct. 24. Photo by Abby Bellow — Cody McLemore puts the ball into play against Rogers State University on Oct. 24. *Photo by Abby Bellow*

The Oklahoma Christian University men’s soccer team added a third column to its season record on Saturday, a space it had hoped to leave vacant.

A double-overtime draw between Oklahoma Christian and Rogers State University updated the Eagles’ record to 8-7-1. Senior Brandon Little Axe said the Eagles played the game they sought to play.

“We came out hard and played the game we set out to play, together and with passion,” Little Axe said.

Rogers State outshot Oklahoma Christian 31-15 in the game, but Evan Helker recorded 11 saves to stave off the Hillcats, tying his season-best.

But the Eagles struggled to create scoring opportunities at the goal. Rogers State goalkeeper Cody Gammill needed to record five saves to keep Oklahoma Christian scoreless.

According to Little Axe, midfield came close, but could not make the right plays to score.

“The only thing we lacked was the quality of play in the middle of the field,” Little Axe said. “The opportunities were there, we just couldn’t connect.”

After two additional 10-minute periods, officials called the game and both teams recorded draws. While it was the Eagles’ first of the season, the Hillcats had two more stalemates this season.

Oklahoma Christian hosts Eastern New Mexico University on Thursday at 7 p.m.

Statistics provided by Oklahoma Christian University Sports Information Department.