ARKADELPHIA- After three goals in a span of 1:34 by both teams late in the second half, an overtime goal from Delta State three minutes into overtime lifted the Statemens to a 3-2 victory over Ouachita Baptist in men’s soccer action on Sunday in Arkadelphia.
Ouachita (7-4-1) trailed 1-0 after Delta State (4-8) scored at 52:12 on a goal from Patrick McPherson. The Tigers responded with 10 minutes remaining when sophomore Rizvan Ceka recorded a penalty kick after a foul inside the box to tie the match at 1-1 at 80:03.
A mere 27 seconds later saw Ouachita senior Victor Romero quickly give the Tigers a 2-1 lead on a long shot from the right side.
Delta State wouldn’t go quietly, however, as the Statemens scored at 81:37 when Eljay Allen recorded a headed on a long pass from a teammate. All in all, there were three goals in a matter of 1:34 after both teams went scoreless for the opening 52 minutes.
In overtime, Delta State scored the golden goal two minutes in, as Jacob Stevenback lifted his team to the victory in a crowded group of defenders on a game-winning header.
It was a physical match overall, as both teams combined for 27 fouls and four yellow cards. Ouachita held the edge in shots, 16-11.
Ouachita freshman Grayson Townsend went the entire match at keeper, recording five saves overall.
The Tigers return to action on Tuesday, Oct. 12 in Tahlequah, Okla. to face Northeastern Oklahoma State at 3 p.m.
