FORT WORTH, TX: The Texas Wesleyan University men's soccer team (5-1) rallied for a 2-1 win over the University of St. Thomas-Houston (0-5-1) at Martin Field on Friday.
After the two teams battled through a scoreless half, the Celts cracked the scoreboard just 38 seconds in to the second half when Oscar Zamudio scored on an assist from Jorge Contreras.
The Celts appeared headed to their first win of the season until
Ofir Avisar played a cross that
Denis Ushakov finished for his team-leading 4th goal of the season.
With time winding down in the 88th minute,
Alejandro Rey found himself alone on a breakaway. UST goalkeeper Sebastian Santos came out to meet Rey, but couldn't get the ball and fouled Rey in the box.
Brien Avalos converted the ensuing penalty kick for his second game-winning goal of the season.
Marko Jovanovic (5-1) came up with 8 saves to hold the narrow lead. Santos made 5 saves in the loss.
UST outshot Texas Wesleyan 24-16, but led just 9-7 in shots on goal. The Rams had two of the three corner kicks in the game. Texas Wesleyan was whistled for 17 fouls and three yellow cards, while the Celts were called for 7 fouls and received two cards including a late red card prior to the game-winning penalty kick. The Celts were called offside 6 times while the Rams jumped 4 times.
The Rams will play their third game of the week and second consecutive game in the heat of the day on Saturday when they host the University of the Southwest. That game is scheduled for a 4:00 p.m. start at Martin Field.
Ramblings
- Avalos has scored two goals in his collegiate career, both were game-winners. The other came during a 3-0 win over William Carey University this season.
- This was Texas Wesleyan's first penalty kick of the season. They have also allowed one penalty kick on the year.
- The Celts had high hopes for this season. They were listed as receiving votes in the NAIA Preseason Coaches' Top-25 poll, but have started the season 0-5-1.
- The Rams are 3-1-2 all-time vs. St. Thomas-Houston. They lead the all-time series with the University of the Southwest, 8-2.
