BOURBONNAIS, IL. – In a riveting CCAC championship final, Olivet Nazarene University’s men’s soccer team emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against Roosevelt University at Snowbarger Athletic Complex on Saturday. The Tigers secured their third consecutive CCAC title after a dramatic 1-1 draw in regulation time, followed by a successful penalty shootout where they outshot Roosevelt 5-3.
First Half: A Battle for Dominance
The opening half of the championship clash witnessed a fierce battle between two resilient defenses. Both teams demonstrated solid defensive structures, denying each other clear scoring opportunities. The tension on the field was palpable as players fought for control and supremacy. Despite the intensity, the first 45 minutes concluded without either side finding the back of the net.
Second Half: Drama Unfolds
As the second half unfolded, the urgency to clinch the title escalated. In the 68th minute, the Lakers managed to break the deadlock with a well-executed goal, sending shockwaves through the home crowd. The Tigers were quick to regroup, showcasing their determination to defend their championship legacy.
In the 76th minute, ONU was awarded a crucial penalty, and senior midfielder Nick Kilian stepped up to take the shot. Despite the initial save by the Roosevelt goalkeeper, senior midfielder Holden Devore was in the right place at the right time, tapping in the rebound to level the score. Despite both teams pushing for a late winner, the scoreboard remained unaltered, forcing the championship showdown into an additional 20 minutes of extra time. With neither side able to secure the decisive goal, the match ultimately progressed to the tension-filled realm of penalty kicks.
In a testament to nerves of steel, ONU showcased impeccable composure in the penalty shootout. The Tigers outshot their opponents 5-3, converting each penalty with clinical precision. As the final penalty found the back of the net, sealing the 1-1 victory in their favor, jubilation erupted among players and fans alike. ONU’s remarkable penalty shootout performance solidified their status as the CCAC champions for the third consecutive year.
This win marks Mark Tun’s first CCAC title as head coach. “I couldn’t be more proud and also thankful for the opportunity to coach this group of young guys,” he says, “and also its a credit to them, its such a young group of players, it’s a lot of underclassmen that are making significant impacts on the field for us. It’s a bright future and we’re very excited about it more than anything.”
Looking Ahead
With the CCAC championship secured, ONU now sets its sights on the upcoming opening round of the national championship. The Tigers will find out who and where they will play on Nov. 13th.
Quick Hits
- Final Score: Olivet Nazarene University 1(5) , Roosevelt University 1(3)
- Devore 76:19
Match Facts:
Snowbarger Athletic Complex | Olivet Nazarene University | Bourbonnais, IL. | November 11, 2023
For more information about the athletics program, contact Evan Wild, Sports Information Director, ewwild@olivet.edu.
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— Republished 11/13/2023 —
