Mid-America Christian scored a goal with just over two minutes to play to steal a 2-1 victory away from the Pioneers of Wayland Baptist on Thursday afternoon at Hilliard Field.
The WBU men opened the scoring on a John Piperis goal off an assist by Daniel Hines at the 11:11 mark in the opening period. The Evangels kept the pressure on the Pioneer defense and goalkeeper Zach Baxley throughout the contest, though, finally breaking through with just under ten minutes left on the clock. The game-winner came eight minutes later after a corner kick was knocked around off several different bodies in front of the net.
"It's tough to lose a game like that," said a visibly frustrated Shiloh Posey after his team's match. "Today was one of our best efforts of the season. Every one of the guys played with a lot of heart and a lot of intensity."
Baxley was credited with seven saves and had five blocks, but made several other outstanding plays against MACU, who outshot the Pioneers 24-9 and improved their overall record to 7-3. The Evangels are 1-2 in league play.
Piperis' goal was his first of the season. He and Bryan Merlos each had three shots in the game. Hines picked up the first assist of his collegiate career.
The WBU men will try and maintain the energy they displayed during Thursday's game into Oklahoma City on Monday when they take on #12 Oklahoma City University at 4 p.m.
