Clarksville, Ark.-The Eagles opened the season with a 1-1 tie against NAIA Central Baptist College Friday afternoon.
Ozarks (0-0-1) went ahead 1-0 in the 15th minute on a nice goal from Dylan Amacher against Mustang goalkeeper Dan Dawson and a number of Mustang defenders. Amacher had an impressive showing in his first regular season match as he recorded three shots, two of which were on frame. Amacher’s goal came when he beat at least three different defenders and then ripped it past Dawson. Josh Duncan received the assist.
“I am very happy with our effort today,” said head coach John Cossaboon. “We could have had it at the end but just couldn’t get a goal. I saw improvement from our scrimmage with Ouachita Baptist. We extended our ability to play in the second half and in to overtime. Our scoring chances in overtime gives me hope for the future.”
Ozarks couldn’t hold its 1-0 first half lead as the Mustangs (2-1-1) got a goal early in the second half to even the score 1-1. Ozarks maintained a strong offensive push in the second half and recorded three shots, but neither team could find the net in the first or second overtime. Amacher and fellow teammate Shaun Keane nearly ended the match in the 107th minute. Amacher again beat defenders down the field and had a clean shot that was deflected by the Mustang goalkeeper. Keane rebounded the ball and took a shot of his own that sailed just left of the post.
Amacher was just one of several freshmen who made significant contributions in the match.
“We had five freshmen that contributed today,” said Cossaboon. “They proved they are ready to play at a high level.”
Ozarks outshot the Mustangs 10-5. Keane and David Cortez finished with two shots apiece. Both teams had four corner kicks.
Ozarks goalkeeper Matt Mouer had two saves.
Ozarks will travel to Conway to face Hendrix College September 4.
Topics: Athletics