Bethany College edged past Sterling College 2-1 on Wednesday, Sept. 17 in their conference opener. Despite Sterling’s early lead with a goal in the first half, Bethany responded with two goals, including the game-winner in the second half. Both teams had 18 shots, but Bethany’s defense held firm, with their goalkeeper making six saves.
The first half kicked off with Sterling’s Ruben Guzman making his mark, finding the back of the net in the 33rd minute to open his scoring account for the season. Despite several shot attempts from the Warriors, including efforts from Jonathan Torres and Jose Pacheco, they were unable to extend their lead. Bethany equalized late in the half with a penalty kick goal from Steven McQueen in the 39th minute, sending both teams into the break tied at 1-1.
The Warriors continued to attack the goal, with shots by Torres at 49:01 and Michael Kyalo at 53:50; however, the Bethany goalkeeper maintained a stout defense, making key saves. Bethany capitalized with a goal by Baptista Amofa in the 56th minute, extending their lead to 2-1. Sterling’s Cassidy Kelly was busy in goal with crucial saves in the later stages, but despite Sterling’s efforts, including a shot from Chimela Orji at 72:34, the team was unable to find an equalizer before the final whistle.
Guzman scored one of Sterling’s goals and led the team with four shots, two of which were on goal. Torres finished with four shots, contributing to the team’s offensive efforts. Kelly, in the goalkeeper position, recorded four saves while facing six shots on goal, allowing two goals in the full 90 minutes of play.
With the loss Sterling moves to 2-2-1 on the season and 0-1 in conference play. Up next, the Warriors will travel to Bartlesville, Okla. on Saturday, Sept. 20 to take on no. 4 ranked Oklahoma Wesleyan University (3-0-2, 1-0). Kickoff is at 7:30 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.
