The Basics
Score: MNU 4 - Ottawa Arizona 3
Record: MNU (13-6-1), OUAZ (13-5-1)
Location: Jack Allen Soccer Complex - Decatur, Ala.
DECATUR, Ala. - The Pioneers advanced to the National Tournament quarterfinals with a 4-3 double overtime victory over Ottawa Arizona on Tuesday. MNU was in trouble early, as the Spirit scored in the 19th and 22nd minutes to take a 2-0 lead. The Pioneers battled back to get a goal before halftime when
Rick Hovinga poked home a rebound, and the teams went to the locker room with a 1 goal differential.
In the 57th minute,
Duarte Chapelas found the side netting with a header after a long cross from
Cheuk Pan Ngan to tie the game at 2, but OUAZ took another lead when they were fouled in the box to earn a PK.
Andrea Dorella guessed correctly on the shot, but the ball sneaked under his hand for a 3-2 lead. With just 7 minutes remaining,
Nicholas Richmond headed a long cross just as the keeper was trying to catch it. The ball came loose and Richmond ensured the tie with a quick strike over the line. The game went into the second overtime after a scoreless 10 minutes, and MNU was fouled in the 104th minute about 40 yards from the goal.
Nicolas Theberge sent in a long ball to the middle of the box. The teams jousted the ball free and Chapelas was there at the back post. He settled and fired through a defender and past the keeper, sending MNU to the next round.
Turning Point
Duarte Chapelas' golden goal put MNU in the quarterfinals, much to the delight of the watch party Pioneer fans in the Allega room.
Up Next
MNU faces #1 Central Methodist (21-0) on Thursday at 1:00.
