Aggies Secure First Win of the Season with Second-Half Surge

Aggies Secure First Win of the Season with Second-Half Surge
September 7, 2024

Goodwell, OK The OPSU Aggies men's soccer team traveled to Kansas City for their first-ever matchup against Avila University, securing a commanding 4-1 victory.

The Aggies delivered a solid second-half performance, scoring three of their four goals after halftime.

The game started with David Rubio, assisted by Mauricio De Santiago, putting the Aggies on the board in the 21st minute. Avila's Vincent Escott equalized just a few minutes later, netting a goal at 25:53.

However, the second half belonged to the Aggies. David Rubio struck again in the 51st minute to regain the lead. Soon after, Mauricio De Santiago extended the lead at the 64:46 mark with a goal assisted by Sebastian Quiero. Nils Kienass sealed the victory with the final goal in the 75th minute.

The Aggies dominated statistically, taking 20 shots, 10 of which were on target. Avila managed just six shots, with three on goal. The Aggies also capitalized on set pieces, earning nine corner kicks compared to Avila's two.

After the win head coach Garrett Kull said "Look it's always fun to get your first win of the season and it's a testament to the hard work the team has put in the past week. A lot really came together today and we were a bit fortunate in some situations but we also had some mistakes. In the second half we really played and controlled the game. I'm really proud of seeing the offense put the ball in the back of net especially from two senior in David and Mauricio. The surprise may be from the freshmen Nils getting his first goal of the season but we've seen it from him and there's more to come. Now we look to turn around and play a Bethel team that battled us tough last season."

Match Summary:

  • OPSU Goals:
    • 21:22 David Rubio (Assisted by: Mauricio De Santiago)
    • 51:23 David Rubio
    • 64:46 Mauricio De Santiago (Assisted by: Sebastian Quiero)
    • 75:29 Nils Kienass

Key Stats:

  • Shots: OPSU 20 (10 on target), Avila 6 (3 on target)
  • Saves: OPSU 2, Avila 6
  • Corner Kicks: OPSU 9, Avila 2
  • Fouls: OPSU 19, Avila 6

With this win, the Aggies improve to 7-3-1 against Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) opponents. Next, OPSU will face Bethel College (KS) in North Newton, KS, on Monday, September 9, at 5:30 PM.