OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Southwestern Christian University men's soccer battled cross-town rival Mid-America Christian University to a 1-1 draw Saturday afternoon at Dill Soccer Field.
The Eagles entered the matchup with a 5-2-2 overall record and looked to pick up their first conference victory of the season against the Evangels, who entered the contest 9-1-2 overall.
After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, both teams continued to battle for control in the second half. SCU goalkeeper Axel Tricot kept the Eagles in the match, making four saves throughout the contest.
MACU eventually broke through in the 87th minute when an own goal gave the Evangels a 1-0 advantage with just over three minutes remaining.
Rather than surrendering, the Eagles responded immediately.
With time winding down, SCU earned a penalty kick, and senior midfielder Gabin Desplats stepped up and delivered. Desplats converted the penalty in the 90th minute to tie the match at 1-1 and secure the draw for the Eagles. The goal was Desplats' seventh of the season.
SCU finished the match with six shots, including two on goal, while Tricot recorded four saves. MACU held an 11-6 advantage in total shots and earned eight corner kicks compared to two for the Eagles.
The Eagles showed their resilience throughout the rivalry matchup, responding late after falling behind and finding the equalizer when it mattered most.
SCU moves to 5-2-2 overall and 0-2-1 in conference play following the draw.
The Eagles will look to build on the hard-fought result as they continue conference play.
