Men’s soccer team beats Alma, 3-1

OLIVET, Mich. -- The Olivet College men's soccer team beat Alma College, 3-1, today in a Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association contest at the Cutler Athletic Complex in Olivet.

Olivet scored the first goal of the game in the 37th minute on a goal by freshman Daniel Hampsten (Plainwell) after receiving a pass from freshman David Bahling (Farmington). The Scots tied the game at 1-1 with a goal at the 42:51 mark.

Sophomore Matt Garza (Saline) scored what proved to be the game-winner in the 64th minute. Senior goalkeeper Ethan Felsing (Mason) punted the ball from the goalie box, where senior Mike May (Mason) knocked the ball down. Garza then redirected the ball into the back of the net. The Comets added an insurance goal in the 81st minute. After receiving a throw in by Garza, May split two defenders and took a low shot to the far post.

"I was happy we generated three goals in a conference match," said Head Coach Chad Wiseman. "With a new coach and new attitude, Alma fought really well. In the end, Mike and Matt were a little too much for Alma to handle.

Olivet finished the game with 15 shots, including 10 on-goal. Freshman Adam Wright (Wixom/Walled Lake Western) led the way with three, while four other had two shots apiece. Felsing was the keeper for all 90 minutes. He faced 14 shots and made seven saves.

The Comets will travel to Grand Rapids to play defending MIAA champion and NCAA national finalist Calvin College Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

"Saturday will be a big game," said Wiseman. "We have a few days to prepare for it and are excited about playing Calvin."