Men’s soccer: Olivet lets lead slip away in 3-2 loss at Hope

HOLLAND, Mich. – Olivet College led 2-0 before Hope College scored three unanswered goals to edge the Comets, 3-2, in a Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) men's soccer game tonight at Van Andel Stadium in Holland.

Sophomore Gregory Petty scored the Comets' first goal in the eighth minute. Junior Austin Dunn was credited with an assist on the goal. Olivet stretched its lead to 2-0 in the 21st minute when freshman Vince Geremia scored off a pass from senior Jared Wilson-Santos. Hope scored two goals to tie the game at 2-2 at halftime.

The Flying Dutch scored what proved to be the game-winning goal only one minute and 26 seconds into the second half. Olivet had several opportunities to score the equalizer in the second half but failed to get the ball into the net.

"The lads are very frustrated tonight after giving it their all against No. 23 Hope," said Olivet Head Coach Dan Bulley. "Our game plan was spot on early, as we had them on the ropes early after two goals in quick succession from Greg and Vince.

"We failed to clear our lines for their first goal just like the game against Elmhurst and let Hope back into the game.  We were robbed moments into the second half after Alex (Lang) had the ball slapped out of his hands and kicked into the net. We always knew we were going to be up against it going into this one but I continue to be proud of each and every one of these lads."

At the end of the game, the stat sheet was similar for both teams. The Comets had a 16-15 advantage in total shots, but both teams placed nine shots on-goal and each also recorded four corner kicks. Senior Zach Schulz registered a team-leading six shots for Olivet. Petty took four shots. Senior goalkeeper Alex Lang played all 90 minutes and made six saves.

The Comets (4-6, 2-3 MIAA) travel to play Adrian College Saturday at noon.

"We have an opportunity to bounce back against Adrian on Saturday," said Bulley. "I expect us to come out firing and let out our anger in a positive way come noon on Saturday."

NOTES: The No. 23 ranking for Hope is according to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America/Continental Tire NCAA Division III Top 25 poll. Olivet's six losses this season have all been by one goal.