FHSU Sports Information

Hays, Kan. – The 11th-ranked Fort Hays State men’s soccer team opened the 2017 season Thursday night (Aug. 31) hosting No. 3 Rockhurst in a rematch of last season’s national quarterfinals. After losing to the Hawks twice last season, FHSU held the perennial powerhouse in check, leading to a scoreless draw. The Tigers are now 4-1-2 all-time in season openers and 0-2-2 against the Hawks. Both teams begin the season with a record of 0-0-1.

The first half began with an aggressive start for both sides as they combined to take nine shots in the half. The Tigers controlled possession for much of the frame, totaling six shots and four corner kicks. However, none of their attempts were on frame.

Momentum seemed to shift after the break as Rockhurst controlled field position for the majority of the second half, leading to a five to one advantage in shots. The Hawks seemed poised to steal the win late in regulation when Umoh Ufot sent a screamer off the post. The ball deflected back in front of goal, where RU’s Ben McDonald was waiting to strike. McDonald fired on net, but Michael Yantz was there to make a game-saving save with four minutes left on the clock.

The two overtime periods were a defensive battle as neither team attempted a single shot in the first overtime period. Both squads had their chances in the second overtime period combining to take five shots, but Yantz once again contributing a crucial save in the final minutes to secure the draw.

Tobias Patino and Luis Torres both attempted two shots for the Tigers, while Antonio De La Torre came away with the lone shot on goal. Yantz finished the match with four saves, earning his 10th career clean sheet.

The Tigers return to action Saturday (Sept. 2) as they travel to Lebanon, Ill. to take on the Bearcats of McKendree University. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.