Men’s soccer: Comets open MIAA play with 3-2 loss at Albion

ALBION, Mich. – The Olivet College men's soccer team suffered a tough 3-2 overtime loss to Albion College in its Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association opener today at Alumni Field in Albion.

The Britons took a 1-0 lead at halftime behind a goal from Kyle Alsheskie in the 27th minute. Senior Zach Schulz scored the equalizer off a pass from senior Jared Wilson-Santos in the 13th minute of the second half. Olivet grabbed a 2-1 lead 12 minutes later on an unassisted goal by junior Austin Dunn. Albion forged a 2-2 tie on an own goal in the 76th minute.

Both teams had two shots in the final 14 minutes of the second half, with neither finding the back of the net. Alsheskie scored the game-winning goal a mere 16 seconds into the first overtime period.

"It was a hard fought game today," said Olivet Head Coach Dan Bulley. "Both sides did a great job feeling each other out early on. Albion had the lead after being disciplined for most of the first half and went in worthy of the lead at the half.

"In the second half, my guys impressed me a lot. Jared has been in fine form and caused problems for them all half and got an assist after Zach Schulz had made a great run in the box and finished well. Austin Dunn found the back of the net a little later, finishing with a shot over the keeper's head. We were flying at this point before an unfortunate own goal leveled the game at 2-2."

For the game, the Comets had 10 shots to 13 for Albion. Schulz and junior Cory Werner-Hoskins each recorded three shots for Olivet. Junior Ryan Grashik was the goalkeeper for all 90 minutes and 16 seconds, and made four saves.

The Comets (2-3, 0-1 MIAA) return home to face Trine (Ind.) University Saturday afternoon at 2:30 p.m.

"Overall, I was happy with our response today," said Bulley. "We know this is a long conference season and we now must prepare for Trine on Saturday back at home."