ELSAH, IL – It was exciting night of soccer on Saturday for the Principia Men's Soccer team as they hosted local NAIA school, Harris-Stowe State University, for their final non-conference match of the young season.
Panthers' goalkeeper
Torben Rehnert had a busy night as the Hornets' attack peppered the Principia net from the first whistle. After Rehnert made multiple impressive saves, Harris-Stowe struck in the 31st minute off a free kick. The Hornets outshot the Panthers 12-1 in the first half with 7 saves by Rehnert.
The second half was similarly lopsided in the shot category (14-3 in favor of Harris-Stowe), but Principia made the most of their chances. In the 66th minute, a Panther attacker was fouled inside the box, leading the ref to award a penalty kick. Senior center back
EG Pierce stepped up confidently and beat the Hornets' keeper in the top left corner to tie the game 1-1.
Four minutes later, freshman forward
Wizzy Afrani got the ball at midfield and went on an incredible run towards the net slicing and dicing to avoid Hornet defenders. After his third cut back, he placed a perfect shot just inside the post for the game winner. Watch the video below!
Rehnert was the MVP of the game as he made 6 saves in the second half to finish with 13 on the night, the second most in a game in Principia Men's Soccer history. The comeback win puts the Panthers' record at 2-0-1 heading into SLIAC play.
Unfortunately, the game was called with five minutes to play due to the arrival of a thunderstorm after an injury to a Harris-Stowe player that required an ambulance to take him to a local hospital. Thankfully, he made a full recovery and was released from the hospital later that night. The nature of his symptoms necessitated careful handling, and Principia trainer, Dave Motzer, was able to provide support for the student athlete until the EMS arrived. Thank you for the prayers of all who were present and watching at home!
Up Next: The Panthers' first conference match is in Fulton, MO on Tuesday, September 13th at 7:00 pm against Westminster College.
