Men’s soccer falls behind early in conference opener

Photo by Roxie Gonzalez

The Eagles soccer team took to the field in conference competition for the first time this season on Oct. 6 against No. 23 ranked St. Edward’s, eventually falling 2-1 to the Hilltoppers.

The game was scoreless until the last second of the half, when a handball penalty was called against Oklahoma Christian and Hilltopper Jack Blanton converted the penalty kick to establish a 1-0 lead for St. Edward’s.

Eagles defender and team captain, Matt McLain said he liked the drive and effort of his team.

“I feel we came out really strong against St. Edward’s and showed a desire to fight and compete against a top 25 team,” McLain said. “We really made them uncomfortable at times and were able to stay organized against a strong attack. I was really proud of how our midfield played and the work ethic, which we brought to the game. We showed we can compete and play with anyone.”

The Hilltoppers extended their lead to 2-0 in the second half when Nate Coons hit a shot from 15 yards out, unassisted.

According to McLain, Oklahoma Christian played sloppily for several minutes, and St. Edward’s nearly scored again; however, the Eagles got back together and prevented additional goals.

“There are a few technical things we could have improved on, such as connecting on long passes better and limiting the turnovers in midfield,” McLain said.

The Eagles scored their first and only goal of the game in the 70th minute off a penalty kick by Domenico DeGrazia. Oklahoma Christian came close on several occasions to tie the game up, but Hilltopper goalkeeper Kevin Lieb made the saves to hold the score at 2-1 and secure the win.

St. Edward’s outshot Oklahoma Christian 25-13. Eagles goalkeeper Evan Helker finished with six saves, while Lieb finished with four.

Three yellow cards were handed out, one to the Eagles’ Troy Tippeconnic, and one each to St. Edward’s’ Josh Taylor and Haiden Stiles.

McLain said the Eagles have a lot of potential to compete in the rest of the conference.

“We need to come out with the same intensity that we came out with against St. Edward’s and we will start getting some results,” McLain said. “We also need to keep up our intensity in practice and make sure we stay focused going into every drill. I believe based on what we know we are capable of and what we showed against [St. Edward’s] that we are going to be going into every game expecting to win. “

The Eagles will host Dallas Baptist University on Oct. 13 at 2:30 p.m.

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