Decided by PKs

Ankeny, IA - October 27, 2023

In a thrilling semifinal encounter in the MCCC Tournament, Emmaus Bible College went back-and-forth with the Manhattan Christian College Thunder. The game, played in Ankeny, Iowa, ended 2-2 after regulation, with the Thunder advancing to the MCCC Championship after a 4-3 edge in penalty kicks.

The Eagles started fast, securing a 6th-minute lead with a goal from Josh Matte and carried the play in the opening quarter-hour. However, Manhattan's Chris Smith capitalized on a ball behind the Eagle defense, converting in the 27th minute to level the score.

Entering the half tied at 1-1, the Thunder gained their first lead in the 68th minute after successfully converting a penalty kick. As time wound down and the Eagles pushed for an equalizer, Bennett Kreiner tapped in a charging finish at the back post, connecting with a Jacob Davis cross from the endline in the 86th minute.

Following regulation, the match progressed immediately into a penalty kick shootout. Cristian Anderson, took on the unexpected role of goalkeeper, following a red card to Kapas late in regulation, and made one crucial save. However, the Eagles failed to convert on two of their attempts, which allowed the Thunder to advance to the MCCC Championship through a 4-3 edge in penalty kicks.

Emmaus Head Coach Chris McHugh acknowledged the challenges of the result, stating, "That's a tough way to go out, but big credit to Jacob and Bennett for creating that game-tying goal, and to Cristian who was impressive in an unexpected role of goalkeeper for us in the shootout. This will be a learning experience for us, and we will come back looking to win the 3rd place match tomorrow."

Up next: Emmaus will play Ozark Christian College in the 3rd Place match of the MCCC Tournament on Saturdaay, Oct. 28.