Goodwell, OK - The Tigers lose their 7th one goal game of the season, this time with minutes left in double over time, 3-4.
It was a a difficult start to the game for the Tigers as they spotted OPSU two goals inside of 10 minutes. The up hill battle was evident as it was going to be difficult to get back into the game.
Coach Hoxie commented, "Simply put…we were still on the bus for the first half. We struggled to defend, track runners, win first balls and such. Frustratingly we failed to execute the tactical report which would have prevented these goals."
As the half wore on, the Tigers began to make it difficult for OPSU and started to exert themselves into the game. A couple of half chances and a 1v1 that was saved by the GK meant that the second half could produce a comeback.
"Proud of the effort the kids had in that second phase of the half. Our work rate increased significantly and we were able to overcome the 25 mph wind. We were slowly getting back into things."
After a tactical change at half time, the game was wide open, which seemed to favor OPSU. However, the Tigers held on tightly and were rewarded for their attacking play getting a goal through
Drew Schrader. Some good midfield play in possession found
Maximo Paz, and his ball into space was met neatly by Drew, who chested it in directly. This was the spark that was needed and it was game on.
The tying goal would come off of
Johnny Rodriguez foot. He was able to pick up a ball played inside the box from Schrader, and his first touch was neat to avoid the defender. His shot going past the GK into the side net was clinical. However, the situation would change when a second ball off a set piece was not dealt with, and OPSU would take the lead once again.
With a few minutes left in the game, the Tigers would equalize again, this time through Schrader. Some quality interlinking play in the MF and a great entry pass forward found Johnny inside the box. His first time ball was played directly into Schrader's run, and his finish was again clinical.
"Wonderful to come back from a deficit twice. We've got the character to do so and we spoke about this at half. Really fun second half to be a part of. All credit to these kids for hanging in there and then taking it to OPSU in the 2nd."
The first overtime was uneventful as the teams pressed to get the winner. However, neither team was close. But with 3 minutes left in the second overtime, OPSU would find the game winner off an unfortunate own goal from the Tigers. A real tough moment but it's something we've got to deal with and get over.
The Tigers return to the field Friday when they welcome Southwest Assemblies of God University in a critical SAC matchup.
