BETHANY, Okla. - In a heart-wrenching GAC/MIAA Tournament clash, the No. 3 seed Fort Hays State Tigers faced a tough challenge against the No. 2 seed Rogers State Hillcats in a contest that unfolded with intensity and nail-biting drama.
The initial half showcased a relentless effort from the Tigers, launching seven shot attempts, while the Hillcats could only get off four. However, despite the efforts, the scoreboard remained untouched, with Fort Hays State and Rogers State locked in a tense 0-0 standoff.
As the second half commenced, the stakes soared, and the players demonstrated unwavering determination. Shots were fired, attacks were mounted, but the Hillcats' goalkeeper Declan Viljoen and Tiger keeper
Ben Dixon showcased their shot-stopping prowess, denying any breakthroughs. The defensive fortitude from both sides was admirable, creating a deadlock that only heightened the anticipation. The regulation time ended with no victor, setting the stage for an intense overtime period.
In the first overtime period, the Hillcats' Hugo Martin found an opening and netted an overtime goal. The Tigers had chances to even the scoring in overtime with two shots from forward
Elias Ovelar Semeniuk. As the final whistle blew, the Tigers, despite their valiant efforts, found themselves on the wrong side of the 1-0 scoreline.
The Tigers mustered a total of 15 shots, with 8 on target, showcasing their offensive intent. The goalkeeping heroics of
Ben Dixon, who faced a barrage of shots, were commendable throughout the match.
This loss marks the end of the season for FHSU Men's Soccer as they finish at 8-8-2 overall and 7-3-2 in the GAC.