Surprise, Ariz. – OUAZ men's soccer held an early lead Thursday night at Spirit Field, but a late goal from the visiting Justice Lions proved to be the difference in a 2-1 setback. The loss moves the Spirit to 1-3-1 on the season.
Despite being outshot throughout the contest, OUAZ struck first in the 18th minute when Matthew Mossman found the back of the net for his first goal of the season. The tally came at the 17:03 mark and gave the Spirit a 1-0 advantage.
Justice applied pressure for much of the opening half, recording 12 shots before intermission. The Lions eventually found the equalizer in the 33rd minute when Shukuru Aluta finished off an assist from Aaron Folikwei to send the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
The second half featured several strong defensive moments from goalkeeper Jack Murdoch, who finished with five saves on the night. Murdoch made a series of key stops midway through the half, helping keep the match level as Justice continued to generate chances.
OUAZ's best opportunities after the break came through Marcos Chavez, who placed both of his shots on target. However, Justice goalkeeper Ricardo Perez turned away both attempts to preserve the draw.
With the match appearing headed toward a stalemate, Justice broke through in the 85th minute. Elijah Kwatsinu converted the game-winning goal off an assist from Husseni Kitambala, giving the Lions a 2-1 lead with just over five minutes to play.
The Spirit earned a late corner kick and pushed numbers forward in search of an equalizer, but Justice held on through the final whistle to secure the victory.
By the Numbers
- Matthew Mossman scored his first goal of the season.
- Marcos Chavez recorded two shots, both on goal.
- Jack Murdoch made five saves in goal.
- Justice held a 20-3 advantage in shots and a 7-3 edge in shots on goal.
- The Lions also finished with a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks.
- Justice goalkeeper Ricardo Perez recorded two saves.
Up Next
The Spirit return to Spirit Field on Thursday, Sept. 10, to open GSAC play against Embry-Riddle. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. as OUAZ looks to earn its first conference victory of the season.
