PLAINVIEW, Texas – The Wayland Baptist men's soccer team battled Texas Wesleyan University on Saturday afternoon at J.V. Hilliard Field but was unable to overcome an early deficit, falling 2-0 in Sooner Athletic Conference action.
With the loss, the Pioneers moved to 4-5-4 overall and 3-2-1 in SAC play, while Texas Wesleyan improved to 6-5-4 overall and 4-2 in conference competition.
The Rams struck first in the 14th minute when Rudy Gonzalez found the back of the net at the 13:24 mark, giving Texas Wesleyan an early 1-0 advantage. The goal came following an initial shot from Marco Arduino that was saved by Wayland goalkeeper Drew Arehart.
Wayland looked to respond as the first half progressed. Renato Katrip recorded the Pioneers' first shot attempt in the 18th minute before Matus Nemec created an opportunity in the 20th minute, placing a shot on goal that was stopped by Texas Wesleyan goalkeeper Noah Epler-McDonnell.
Despite their efforts, the Pioneers entered halftime trailing 1-0, with Texas Wesleyan holding a 5-2 advantage in shots through the opening 45 minutes.
Wayland came out looking to generate more offensive opportunities in the second half, increasing its attacking pressure and creating several chances to find the equalizer.
Lorenzo Pardo registered a shot in the 64th minute, while Baptiste Hervaud tested the Rams' goalkeeper in the 77th minute. Josue Gonzalez provided an offensive spark off the bench, recording two shots on goal in the 78th and 83rd minutes, but Epler-McDonnell was able to turn away both attempts.
The Pioneers continued searching for the tying goal as the clock wound down, but Texas Wesleyan's defense held strong. With just 20 seconds remaining in regulation, Diogo Stefane added an insurance goal at the 89:40 mark to secure the 2-0 victory for the Rams.
Wayland finished the contest with six total shots, including four on goal, compared to 10 shots and eight on goal for Texas Wesleyan. The Rams also held a 5-3 advantage in corner kicks.
Josue Gonzalez led the Pioneers offensively with two shots, both on target. Nemec and Hervaud each contributed a shot on goal, while Katrip and Pardo added one shot apiece.
Defensively, Drew Arehart played all 90 minutes in goal for Wayland, recording six saves to keep the Pioneers within striking distance throughout much of the match. Arehart recorded three saves in each half as Texas Wesleyan continued applying offensive pressure.
Despite the setback, Wayland remains in the conference postseason race as the Pioneers prepare for their final home match of the regular season.
Up Next
Wayland Baptist will return to J.V. Hilliard Field on Wednesday, October 21, at 3:00 p.m. to host John Brown University in a Sooner Athletic Conference matchup. The contest will also serve as Senior Day, as the Pioneers recognize their graduating seniors for their dedication, leadership, and contributions to the Wayland Baptist men's soccer program.
