PARKVILLE, Mo. – The Missouri Baptist University men's soccer team came up short in a high-scoring battle with Park University, falling 5-3. Despite the loss, the Spartans showed grit by netting the final goal of the match.
Anel Tahirovic opened the scoring early, recording his second goal of the season just eight minutes into play. Both teams tallied eight shots in the first half, with Park also finding the back of the net once.
Freshman Simon Olle continued to push the attack and was rewarded with a goal before halftime, giving the Spartans momentum heading into the break.
In goal, Sean Stone stopped four of the five shots he faced in the opening half, while Park's Felipe Ramos slightly outpaced him with five saves.
The second half, however, swung in Park's favor. The Pirates' offense surged, scoring four unanswered goals in just 20 minutes.
Still, the Spartans battled back, matching Park in both shot attempts and corner kicks. Anthony Coppotelli capped off the night by scoring his fourth goal of the season with 1:40 remaining in regulation.
MBU will now take a weeklong break before resuming HEART play on Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m. on the road against Graceland University (Iowa).
