STERLING, Kan. — Sterling fell to NCAA DII Southwest Baptist with a final score of 0-8 in the Warrior’s season opener on Saturday, Aug. 29. Sterling’s goalkeeper made 13 saves despite the defeat.
The first period began with the Bearcats taking an early lead, as Thomas Ladetto scored in the opening minute. Sterling faced increased pressure, with Cassidy Kelly making crucial saves to resist multiple shot attempts. Despite defensive efforts, SBU extended its lead with a penalty kick goal by Nathaniel Velasquez at 5:10 and another goal by Ladetto at 6:20.
Sterling continued to struggle against the Bearcats’ offense, which maintained its momentum with a fourth goal by Joe Wright at 26:21. Sterling had an opportunity to respond with a corner kick by Jack Nickson at 14:50, but the shot by Zachariah Martínez just before halftime went wide. The period concluded with Sterling trailing 4-0.
The second period commenced with Sterling’s defense facing a formidable offensive effort from SBU. Goalkeeper Cassidy Kelly delivered several crucial saves early on, keeping out attempts from Luis Sanchez-Barbudo Cruz and Maxence Cardon. Despite Kelly’s efforts, Nathaniel Velasquez scored in the 62nd minute, marking the first goal of the period and extending the Bearcats’ lead.
The Bearcats continued to press, and Sterling struggled to regain momentum. SBU capitalized again with goals from Ladetto and Joe Wright in the 73rd minute, assisted by Felipe Gilberti. Luis Sanchez-Barbudo Cruz added another goal in the 89th minute, solidifying a strong finish for the visitors. The period closed with SBU securing a significant 8-0 victory.
Cassidy Kelly made 13 saves for Sterling, facing 21 shots in the contest. Jack Nickson contributed to the offense with one shot on goal. Zachariah Martínez added another attempt, although it did not find the target.
Sterling (0-1) will be back in action on Wednesday, Sept. 2 in Chickasha, Okla. at 7 p.m. as they take on the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (2-1).
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors’ live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
