The Basics
Score: MNU 1 – Central Methodist 2
Record:Â MNU (3-2-0, 1-1-0), CMU (4-1-1, 2-0-0)
Location:Â Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex - Olathe, Kan.
OLATHE, Kan. – A dramatic late equalizer wasn't enough for #13 MNU on Wednesday afternoon, as #21 Central Methodist struck in the final seconds to hand the Pioneers a heartbreaking 2-1 loss at the Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex.
After falling behind in the 42nd minute on a header from a corner kick, MNU pushed relentlessly in the second half. The Pioneers created chances through Thayline Teixeira, who fired a match-high five shots, and their persistence finally paid off. In the 90th minute, Teixeira broke through with a free kick just outside the box and buried the equalizer to make it 1-1, sending the home crowd into celebration.
But with the game seconds from being over, CMU struck again. With a free kick almost identical to Teixeira's, the Eagles netted the winner at the 90:00 mark to stun the Pioneers and seal the contest.
MNU outshot the Eagles 14-12 and forced four saves. The Pioneers were especially dangerous in the opening half, rattling the crossbar and forcing CMU into desperate defending. On the other end, goalkeeper Fiona Popetschnig made three saves while facing a flurry of second-half pressure.
Turning Point
Teixeira's equalizer at 89:19 looked destined to secure at least a point for the Pioneers, but Muñoz's buzzer-beating finish swung the result in the closing moments.
Individual Leaders
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home (CBAC) vs. Park (3-1-1, 1-0-1) at 1:00.
