ABILENE, Texas – A back-and-forth and highly entertaining contest came to a fever pitch in the 103rd minute late on Friday night, as McMurry University Men's Soccer scored the golden goal to secure a 4-3 victory over Texas College at Wilford Moore Stadium.
After surrendering a 3-1 lead by allowing two second half goals, the War Hawks (3-2) regrouped in a big way.
Early into the second overtime, McMurry freshman Luis Lopez delivered a throw into the attacking box. Junior DJ Jaime was on the receiving end of the throw, sending a perfect header to senior teammate Javi Mejia. Mejia finished with a header of his own, sending the fans home happy just before midnight.
McMurry was outshot by Texas College (2-5-1) on the evening, 16-8, but made the most of their eight attempts with five shots on goal. Two of the goals came off the foot of sophomore Andres Martinez in the second half.
Senior Miguel Esteban Jr. helped McMurry strike first, scoring unassisted in the 14th minute. Texas College would answer before halftime, setting up a pivotal second half.
Martinez's goals gave McMurry a 3-1 lead early in the second half, with the go-ahead goal coming on a penalty kick and the third score coming off a pass from Jesus Gil.
Texas College's Eddie Molina would also score twice in the second half, as his 84th minute goal served as the late equalizer to steal momentum and force overtime.
The War Hawks nearly surrendered the golden goal in the first 10:00 of extra time, as a Steers' chip shot sailed over the head of goalkeeper Aiden Keane and towards the net. Playing heads up defense behind him was freshman Jorge Reyes, heading away the loose ball before rolling through.
Keane faced 10 shots on goal throughout the night, making six saves against a power-kicking offense.
Later in the game, McMurry found themselves in the attacking third, drawing a foul to set up the winning set piece near the right sideline.
Martinez and Esteban Jr. each totaled three shots for the contest.
The War Hawks return to action on Thursday, Sept. 19 with a road game against Texas A&M Texarkana. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.
