The Master's University men's soccer team battled NCAA Division I Cal Baptist University to a 0-0 draw on Tuesday afternoon on Reese Field.
"I'm really proud of the team to play with such heart and passion in the face of adversity," Master's head coach
Jim Rickard said. "I want to highlight our defense on their tenacity and organization. All of them were amazing. Our midfield and forwards worked tirelessly on both ends of the field as well."
TMU (0-1-1) could not get much going offensively in the first half, not recording a shot in the opening 45 minutes for the second-straight game, while getting outshot 7-0.
"Cal Baptist is a very talented team and they hurt us many times with possession and attacking speed," Rickard said.
However, the Mustangs found their footing in the second half, producing the game's most clear-cut chance when
Prince Chingancheke was brought down in the box for a penalty kick in the 62nd minute. The game remained scoreless after Lancers' goalkeeper Gage Rogers saved the ensuing spot kick.
TMU almost broke the deadlock three minutes later, when
Jesus Torres rattled the crossbar with a thundering strike from outside the 18.
"We were able to make some adjustments and had a good run during the first 20 minutes or so of the second half," Rickard said. "We had quality defensive pressure, ball movement and a few excellent chances. When we showed offensive composure, we did really good things."
Cal Baptist (0-0-1), who outshot Master's 19-4 overall and 6-2 in shots on goal for the game, almost found the winner in the 89th minute, but the crossbar preserved the tie and sent the game to overtime.
Jonathan Lengkey almost gave the Mustangs a golden-goal victory two minutes into the first overtime period, but his flick header was saved off the line by the Lancers' defense.
Then in the second overtime,
Kian Bensend produced a save in the 102nd minute, as both teams settled for a scoreless draw. Bensend (three saves) and
Price Anderson (two saves) combined for the shutout in goal.
"Battles coupled with positive results like this build trust, team chemistry and bonding," Rickard said. "I feel like the future is bright for us."
The Mustangs are scheduled to return to Reese Field on Feb. 17 in a nonconference matchup against fellow Golden State Athletic Conference member Hope International.
