Bethel edged past Sterling 1-0 on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at North Newton, Kan. Bethel’s lone goal came in the second half, securing the win despite playing with 10 men after receiving a red card. Sterling recorded eight shots, three of which were on goal, but could not find the back of the net.
The first half began with Sterling’s defense holding firm as the Threshers attempted to capitalize on early opportunities. Alejandro Mora made a notable save in the 12th minute, thwarting a shot from Seif Ghodhbani to keep the score level. Jonathan Torres generated offense for Sterling with a shot on goal in the 12th minute, but it was saved by Bethel’s goalkeeper Kazimir Kromwijk.
As the half progressed, Jose Pacheco contributed two attempts for Sterling, one of which was blocked while the other missed wide right. Despite several fouls and a high number of shots from both teams, neither side managed to break through. The half closed with the score tied at 0-0, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
The second half began with Sterling’s Mora making a crucial save against Bethel’s Aden Braggs shot, setting a competitive tone. Sterling mounted an offensive push as Chimela Orji and Floyd Ransom both attempted shots, though their efforts went wide and high, respectively. Torres delivered a corner kick in the 68th minute, keeping the pressure on the Threshers’ defense.
Sterling’s defense, led by goalkeeper Mora, continued to fend off Bethel College’s attacks, including another save in the 81st minute. Despite strong defensive efforts, Bethel’s Braggs broke the deadlock in the 84th minute with a goal assisted by Branden Balvanz. Sterling responded with a flurry of corner kicks and a late shot by Ruben Guzman, but Kromwijk maintained the home team’s advantage, and the game finished with Sterling trailing, 1-0.
Torres led the Sterling team with two shots, both of which were on goal. Pacheco contributed with two shots, although none were on target. Mora, in goal, made three saves while allowing one goal during his 90 minutes of play. Guzman added one shot on goal to his tally for the match.
With the loss the Warriors move to 2-6-1 on the season and will look to secure their first win in conference this Saturday, Oct. 4 at home as they take on Avila University (4-5, 1-3). The game is scheduled to start 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.
