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Hope International University

mens-soccer-royals-and-buccaneers-finish-2-1
1
Arizona Christian (A ACU (2-6-1, 0-4-1)
2
Winner Hope International HIU (6-1-2, 3-0-2)
Arizona Christian (A ACU
(2-6-1, 0-4-1)
1
Final
2
Hope International HIU
(6-1-2, 3-0-2)
Winner
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 F
Arizona Christian (A ACU 1 0 1
Hope International HIU 2 0 2

Game Recap: Men's Soccer | | Calla Anderson

Hope International Holds Off Arizona Christian for 2-1 Win

The Hope International men's soccer team (6-1-2, 3-0-2 GSAC) continued their impressive GSAC campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the Arizona Christian Firestorm on Thursday evening at Great Park in Irvine.

The Royals wasted no time in taking control, scoring just two minutes into the match. Lex Leathem fired a shot that was saved by the Firestorm goalkeeper, Vega, but Leathem quickly recovered, threading a pass to Andy Cabrera, who slotted home his first goal of the season. The early strike gave the Royals a quick 1-0 lead.

Arizona Christian responded with pressure of their own, forcing a save from Royals goalkeeper Milton Herrera in the first half. Despite the Firestorm's efforts, Hope International created more chances, with Freddy Mora testing the Arizona Christian defense twice, only to see both attempts blocked. However, the Firestorm broke through midway through the half when Jose Garcia set up Marcus Mora for his first goal of the season, leveling the score at 1-1. Arizona Christian continued to press, but Herrera and the Royals' defense stood firm, denying the Firestorm two more shots before halftime. Bill Sanchez scored a last minute goal assisted by Ryan Jamir to take the lead. The half ended 2-1. 

In the second half the Royals made a goalkeeper switch, with Berlin Torres stepping in for Herrera. The Firestorm had early chances, but Torres was up to the task, making key saves to preserve the 2-1 lead. Hope International kept up their intensity, generating opportunities of their own, including a close-range effort in the 88th minute from Braulio Morales that went wide.

Torres' presence in goal proved pivotal, as he recorded two crucial saves in the second half to secure the win. The Royals' defense, anchored by strong performances from both goalkeepers, held off Arizona Christian's late push.

With this victory, Hope International remains unbeaten in GSAC play. They will look to continue their strong start as they face Ottawa University of Arizona at Biola University on Saturday, October 5, at 12:30 p.m.


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