FORT WORTH - Texas Wesleyan University (1-0-0) scored three goals in each half to secure a 6-3 victory over North American University (0-3-0) on Friday night at Martin Field in Fort Worth.
The first half began with the Rams'
Jesus Diaz positioned as goalie while the Stallions took an early lead, scoring in the 19th minute. However,
Nathaniel Neang quickly responded with a goal at the 20-minute mark, assisted by Rudy Gonzales, leveling the score. Despite falling behind again, the Rams'
Louis Guffroy converted a penalty kick in the 30th minute, and
Joel Kisukulu equalized the score at 3-3 just before halftime, assisted by
Diogo Stefane.
The second half began with the Rams quickly gaining momentum, as Guffroy scored just 50 seconds into the half, assisted by
Fabricio Martinez, to take the lead 4-3. Guffroy struck again, increasing the lead to 5-3 with his third goal of the season, marking a hat-trick to open the season. Later in the half, Stefane added another goal, with an assist from Martinez, marking his first goal of the season and solidifying the Rams' 6-3 victory over the Stallions.
Guffroy led the Rams in scoring with three goals, all on target, including the winner. Stefane contributed with both a goal and an assist, while also having his only shot on target. Martinez was instrumental in playmaking with two assists and took three shots, one of which was on goal. Gonzales added to the team's efforts with an assist and had one shot on goal. Kisukulu and Neang each found the back of the net with their single shots on goal.
Flynn Faulkner led the Stallions with two goals, both coming from his two shots on goal. Alejandro Perez added another goal with his only shot on target. Wilman Landaverde contributed significantly with two assists, providing key opportunities for his teammates. Goalkeeper Sof Hamilton played the full 90 minutes, making two saves from eight shots faced.
The Rams will return to action next Saturday on the pitch at Martin Field when they Louisiana State University at Alexandria with a slated 7:30 p.m.