TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Rogers State men's soccer team battled NCAA Division II fifth-ranked Northeastern State University to a 0-0 draw at DeLoache Field Wednesday evening.
RSU's best opportunity came in the 99th minute as Garron Hayes header off a corner kick was impressively saved by RiverHawk goalkeeper Jackson Biles.
"They dodged a bullet for sure what a great header by Garron and thought the game was over at that point. Their keeper came up with just a save out of his mind!" RSU head coach Derek Larkin said post game. "I think it energized us and kept us going throughout the overtime and we were able to get good results."
NSU was limited to just one shot in the final overtime period as the RiverHawks outshot the Hillcats 29-12. RSU goalkeeper Joey Arnold (3-3-1) recorded his first complete game shutout of the season for the Cats.
The RiverHawks seemed destined for victory as a call inside the penalty area against the Hillcats gave Joel Mendoza the penalty kick opportunity. Mendoza was unable to capitalize as his shot sailed above the crossbar in the 80th minute.
RSU avoided another NSU opportunity in the 91st minute as a beautiful strike by Jordan Schmoker struck the crossbar.
"Our men, we know we can compete with the best and today we just needed to prove it to ourselves and they did. We hung in there, we dodged some bullets but we also had some chances too. Just great for our program," said the Hillcats head coach.
Rogers State (3-5-1) will host the first Heartland Conference contest in program history on Saturday, October 12 as No. 7-ranked St. Edward's comes to Soldier Field. Live video streaming will be provided on the Hillcat Network at www.rsuhillcats.com/live.
