McPherson Soccer Stuns Buhler 3-2 in Overtime Thriller
Bullpups overcome halftime deficit with second-half rally before Morales nets winner in extra time
McPherson's boys soccer team delivered a dramatic comeback victory over Buhler Tuesday night, overcoming a 1-0 halftime deficit to win 3-2 in overtime behind a resilient second-half performance and clutch overtime heroics.
Buhler took the early advantage with a penalty kick goal in the first half after earning the spot kick on a handball in the box. The Bullpups faced a stern halftime challenge from their coaching staff to show the perseverance that has been emphasized throughout the season.
McPherson responded emphatically in the second half, coming out aggressively and nearly equalizing when Manny Morales' header struck the post. The breakthrough came when Yahir Valadez displayed skillful footwork to escape pressure and deliver a cross that Parker Riemann tapped home for the equalizer.
The Bullpups maintained their pressure and took the lead through an unlikely source. Valadez whipped a dangerous corner kick into the penalty area through the rain, and the ball deflected off a Buhler defender into the net for an own goal.
Buhler answered back just minutes later with a goal off a set piece to level the match at 2-2 and force overtime.
In the extra period, Morales provided the decisive moment by beating his defender and finding Ben Bocox, who delivered a perfect cross back to Morales for the game-winning goal.
Goalkeeper Gabe Standfast was instrumental in the victory, making 13 saves while facing constant pressure. McPherson managed 5 shots on goal in the contest.
The JV squad played to a 0-0 draw in the earlier match.
"This was exactly the type of game we needed tonight after a really challenging start to the season," said head coach Chris Adrian. "The game forced the team to dig deep and persevere. I'm proud of the effort and resilience the team showed."
Greg Loving
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