Warriors’ Comeback Falls Short in Home Opener

FREMONT, Neb. – Midland University started its home schedule with a match on Saturday afternoon against Graceland University. After falling behind by two goals in the opening half, the Warriors mounted a comeback attempt in the second. They came up just short, falling 2-1 to the Yellowjackets.

The game started slowly as both teams were feeling each other out with Graceland having more of the possession early. The Jackets got the scoring started when a long throw found the head of Andrew Porter who headed the ball into the box. The redirect found the feet of Guillermo Tejada who half-volleyed the ball into the net in the 15th minute.

Graceland was able to add to its lead with a quick attack a few minutes later. Another header in the box from Porter found the head of Hajime Osaki who powered the ball into the goal in the 17th minute to make it a 2-0 lead.

The Midland offense looked to get a goal before the break. Five of the last eight shots before the half came off a Warriors' foot but were unsuccessful at finding the back of the net.

"First half we took too long to get going and gave goals away," said head coach Josh Nakayama.

After the intermission, the Warriors tried their best to overcome the Jacket defense forcing a pair of blocks and two saves on seven shots. Graceland was up for the challenge as the Warriors stared at a 2-0 deficit late in the game.

In the 86th minute, Colton Costello was able to get the ball in tight quarters in the box before a deflected shot looped over the goalkeeper and into the net, cutting the deficit in half. As the time ticked away, the comeback was cut and the game finished 2-1 in favor of the visitors.

Nakayama added, "I'm proud of how our team responded in the second half but it was too little too late. I'm confident in this team."

Hugo Sjoeberg picked up four saves on the day for the Warriors. Graceland had a slight edge in total shots (14-13) but the teams were even (5-5) with shots on frame.

Midland (1-2-1) will be back in action on Wednesday, September 4 when it travels to face York (XX). Game time is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. in York, Nebraska.