OUAZ was starting history in the face on Saturday in its first ever NAIA postseason game. A win on at Hope International could wash away all the frustrations of an up and down conference season. That wave of relief came in the final 45 minutes.

Josias Cruz scored two goals in the second half, including the game winner in the 81', to help the Spirit get past the Royals 3-2 in Fullerton, Calif. It was the first NAIA postseason win in program history.

The Spirit had a dominant first half statistically, as they had three shots and seven corner kicks. Despite that, OUAZ was down by a goal at half. Cruz then came out and scored 7:48 into the final frame. His game-winner came off a free kick.

Prior to Saturday's win, the Spirit were winless in four of its last five conference matches. The team also lost 1-0 to Hope International at Spirit Field early in the conference season. OUAZ head coach Matt Gow was happy with his team's effort on the road.

"I'm very proud of these guys," Gow said via text message after the game. "To go on the road in the conference tournament is hard. To be down at half makes it even tougher. To see this team come together and show some positive character was something that is very exciting to see. We grew up today."

The win puts OUAZ in the GSAC Tournament semifinals next week. The Spirit do not have a lot of time to rest, as they will head to Santa Barbara, Calif. for a date with host Westmont on Wednesday afternoon. Kickoff for the match is scheduled for 2:30pm Arizona Time.