OWENSBORO, KY. - On a hot and humid afternoon, the Kentucky Wesleyan College men's soccer team took Walsh down to the final minutes before a dramatic ending to the Great Midwest match. The Panthers suffered a 1-0 defeat as the Cavaliers found the game winning goal in the 88th minute.
Walsh was back on its heels at the start of the match as precise ball movement from the Panthers (1-9-1, 0-7-1 G-MAC) saw multiple good scoring opportunities. The Cavaliers (5-6-1, 3-6-1 G-MAC) were forced to play defense throughout the first 45 minutes as keeper Brett Ekperuoh made five saves to preserved a scoreless tie at the break.
In comparison Lucas Daunhauer made two saves in the first 45 minutes facing nine shot attempts. However, there was a shift in the tides in the second half as the Cavs attack was fast and aggressive.
The Cavs took 15 shots in the second half, all the while the Panthers maintained their discipline defense, stifling scoring attempts. Despite most of the action taking place in front of Daunhauer, the Panthers got a good look in the 69th minute.
David Flores got a wide open look in traffic and in front of the Walsh net. However, his shot off the corner kick hit the post and all but stopped inches from the goal line. The Cavs got to the loose ball and knocked it away before another attempt.
In the 83rd minute Josh Barnett sized-up a 30 yard attempt from the middle of the field, but his line-drive sailed just over the crossbar. The Cavs got two more good looks to score in the 83rd and 87th minute, but each shot missed left.
Finally, with 81 seconds left in the game, Dwight Van dyke scored the lone goal of the match. Wesley Burton's shot bounced off Daunhauer and back to Van dyke who converted the rebound for the game winner.
Daunhauer finished with nine saves. Barnett recorded three shots, one on goal.
The Panthers will travel to Findlay, Ohio on Thursday to play the Oilers. The match is scheduled to start at 3 PM CT.
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