Belton, Texas-Hardin-Simmons University eliminated the Eagles from the American Southwest Conference Tournament with a 3-1semi-finals win Saturday.
After a scoreless first half, Hardin-Simmons (10-2-5) scored early in the second half to go ahead 1-0. Ozarks (12-5-3), however, got a penalty kick opportunity minutes later and Brandon VanCleave promptly ripped one past Cowboy goalkeeper Logan Waters to tie the score at 1-1. Prior to VanCleave’s goal, Scott Janders nearly scored on a header just five minutes into the second half, but Waters knocked it over the crossbar to keep Ozarks scoreless. Hardin-Simmons later countered with a breakaway goal in the 71st minute to go up 2-1. Ozarks wasn’t without chances in the second half as it reeled off 11 shots, including a Philip Johnson header in the 62nd minute. Dylan Evans also had a pair of shots, both of which just missed the frame. Janders would again send a header toward goal with ten minutes left, but Waters was able to bat it away. Tyler Murray then made the shot of the day when he connected on a free kick from 40 yards in the 83rd minute to put the Cowboys ahead 3-1. Ozarks had a penalty kick shot knocked away by Waters in the 86th minute.
Each team recorded 15 shots apiece.
VanCleave had five shots to lead the Eagles.
Neil Thompson had two saves in the match.
VanCleave and Aaron Brueckner were named to the All-Tournament Team.
Topics: Athletics