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Grace College Athletics

Grace College Lancers
Grace College Lancers
Gift Sibukome IWU 2013

Men's Soccer

Two second-half goals unravel Men's Soccer

Box Score
SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – Grace's men's soccer team tallied an equal number of shots as Spring Arbor on Saturday, but it was the Cougars who advanced 2-0 in the Crossroads League Tournament.

The third-seeded Cougars struck twice in the second half to end the Lancers' season at 7-8-1.

"Spring Arbor is a good team and is persistent in every position. We have struggled to score goals all year, and tonight was no different," said Grace head coach Matt Hotchkin. "We haven't been able to find a rhythm to our offense or get in-sync."

The first half saw few chances for either team as the Cougars (11-7-1) had a slight 4-3 shot advantage.

Grace seemed in control to begin the second half, stringing together a number of passes in possession. But Spring Arbor opened up the scoring in the 62nd minute when Giovanni Sturla beat Jacob Cole for a goal.

The Lancers added numbers to their offensive end in search of an equalizer, outshooting the Cougars 7-6 in the second half. Spring Arbor took advantage of Grace's defense, however, adding an insurance goal in the 81st minute.

The game took a late twist when Spring Arbor was issued a straight-red card with 5:50 remaining in regulation. Grace was unable to capitalize on their advantage, however, and was eliminated in the CL Quarterfinals.

"It is tough losing, and this year has seen ups and downs. Benjamin Bassous and Shane Barthuly served us well as seniors, and we have a strong group returning for next year," Hotchkin concluded.

Trent Smith led all players with four shots, and Ben Cahill added two shots for Grace.

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