Houghton, NY– The Houghton College Men's soccer team faced the Pioneers of Utica in the Empire 8 semifinal matchup on Wednesday night.

The first half was all the Highlanders as they were able to find two goals; Julius Klohr found the back of the net first in the 10th minute of the match, taking a beautiful centering pass from Alex Kalivoda. Isaiah Miller was able to find a goal of his own in the 26th minute. This early lead was instrumental in the confidence of the Highlanders as their defense was able to blank the Pioneers of Utica in the first half, giving Houghton a 2-0 lead going into the half.  

The second half began with Utica coming out on as the aggressor as they had a 2-0 hole to dig themselves out. Their effort would be fruitful as Byamungu Mugushu would find two impressive goals in the first 20 minutes of the second half, tying the game at 2-2 with 25 minutes left in the game. Both teams continued to attack and attempt to create an advantage as the clock ticked down, knowing that any goal could end their opponent's season. With 10 minutes remaining the Pioneers found that advantage and Gian Rodriguez scored, giving Utica a 3-2 lead and forcing the Highlanders to need a goal in order to continue their season. In the final 2 minutes of the game the Highlanders seemed to be defeated, when Andy Loomis was able to break free and find the back of the net, saving the Highlanders season and sending the game into Overtime! 

As overtime began, there was huge energy in the air as it was known by everyone in attendance that the next goal would be ending a team's season and some player's careers. Both teams got multiple shots on goal in the extra time but the goalies stepped up and cleared every goal that was coming their way. That was until the Highlanders secured a corner kick.. Andy Loomis took the corner, Oscar Palacios headed it across the box and Caleb Bailey found the back of the net; giving Houghton the win and sends them to the Empire Championship. 

With the win, the Highlanders advance to the Empire 8 Championship on Saturday where they will face the top seeded Nazareth Golden Flyers. 

GAME VITALS Score: Houghton – 4 | Utica- 3  Venue: Burke Field | Attendance: 269

NOTABLE STATS

>>  Both teams had 14 shots in the match.

>> Houghton Goalkeeper, Sam Carpenter, recorded six saves on the day while allowing three goals in the contest.

UP NEXT

The Highlanders will travel to Nazareth to play for the Empire 8 Championship on Saturday afternoon.