Men’s soccer team ties MSOE, 2-2

KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The Olivet College men's soccer team battled to a 2-2 double overtime draw against Milwaukee School of Engineering (Wis.) today in a non-conference contest at Mackenzie Field in Kalamazoo.

MSOE held a 1-0 lead at halftime behind an unassisted goal from Logan Andryk in the 22nd minute. Olivet came back to take a 2-1 lead with a pair of goals in a span of 156 seconds in the first half. Senior Connor Plagens (South Lyon) netted the first goal off a pass from junior Evan Simpson (Washington/Romeo) at the 51:23 mark. Senior Fred Smyser (Grand Rapids/Forest Hills Eastern) put the second goal in the back of the net after receiving a pass from sophomore Michael Moscone (Washington Twp./Warren De La Salle).

In the 70th minute, the Comets had a chance to take the lead but missed a penalty kick goal. The Engineers tied the game three minutes later on a header. Olivet missed another penalty kick in the 79th minute.

The Comets took 25 shots, placing 11 on-goal. Smyser led the way with five shots, while senior Adam Wright (Southend, England/Walled Lake Western) had four. Junior Alex Lang (Northville/Detroit Catholic Central) made eight saves on 18 MSOE shots, while playing all 90 minutes in goal.

"We played much better today than we did yesterday," said Head Coach Dan Bulley. "There was a confidence and swagger to our game and we will continue to grow as a team. This set of players has the potential to be very, very good. Having played to a lower level yesterday and won typifies the game of soccer we all love. Overall after a tough opening weekend, I am delighted to come away with a win and a tie."

The Comets (1-0-1) return to the field Wednesday night at Spring Arbor University. Game time is 7 p.m.