Sterling defeated Evangel 2-1 on Friday, Oct. 17. After trailing at halftime, Sterling equalized with a goal early in the second half and secured the victory with a game-winning goal. Sterling’s defense held firm under pressure, with the goalkeeper making 11 saves. Evangel University led at the break with a goal in the first half but could not maintain the advantage.
The first half began with Sterling aggressively pushing forward, as early shot attempts by Alejandro Cano and Ruben Guzman tested the Evangel goalkeeper, Davide Marzoli. However, Evangel managed to capitalize on their opportunity with a goal by Hayes Van Breusegen in the 8th minute, assisted by Vasco Goncalves. Despite multiple shots from Sterling players, including efforts by Jose Pacheco and O-Rephemetse Maphatseo, Marzoli remained steadfast, keeping Sterling off the scoreboard. Cassidy Kelly provided crucial saves for Sterling to limit Evangel to a single goal lead. The half concluded with Sterling trailing 1-0.
The second half began with Sterling finding a pivotal moment in the 76th minute when Jeanluis Modesto scored, assisted by Bailey Allen, leveling the match at 1-1. Sterling continued to press forward, and in the 88th minute, Jonathan Torres set up Pacheco for the go-ahead goal. Sterling’s defense held firm, with Kelly making crucial saves, including stopping shots from Akari Sydney and Jaeden Carter. The home team maintained their lead as the clock wound down, securing a 2-1 victory.
Kelly recorded 11 saves, allowing just one goal in the match. Pacheco scored a crucial game-winning goal and posted two shots on target from three attempts. Cano led the team in shots with four, two of which were on goal. Torres provided an assist and contributed four shots, with two on target.
With the win, the Warriors move to 4-9-1 on the season and 2-8 in conference. Sterling will face Tabor (6-7-1, 4-5) at home on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 3 p.m.
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.
