Panhandle State Battles to Draw with Central Christian

GOODWELL, Okla. The Oklahoma Panhandle State men's soccer team (4-3-4, 0-2-2 SAC) held an early second-half lead but ultimately battled to a 1-1 draw Tuesday evening at Anchor D Stadium versus Central Christian (2-6-3, 2-1-1).

In a defensive-minded match, OPSU won the battle in chances with four shots compared to the Tigers' one in the first half.

The intensity ratcheted up in the second half, and a Central Christian foul in the box in the 54th minute sent Othman Gherab to a penalty kick.

Gherab laced a shot inside the right post, tying him for the team lead in goals this season with five (Ayoup Bader) to put the Aggies ahead, 1-0.

The advantage unfortunately did not last long, as the Tigers scored the equalizer in the 68th minute.

A game with few scoring chances turned physical late, but the dust settled with the score tied as the teams each earned a point in the SAC standings.

Olai Caicoya faced only two shots on goal in another stellar defensive effort for the Aggies, as his goalie record moved to 1-1-2 on the year.

Bader and Calum Murphy joined Gherab as Aggies with a shot on goal during the match.

What's up next: OPSU closes out its homestand Friday at 2 p.m. when it faces Science & Arts (5-3-4, 1-2-1).