Men’s soccer team ties Hope, 0-0

The Olivet College men's soccer team battled with Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) Hope College to a scoreless 0-0 double overtime tie against Hope College this afternoon at the Cutler Athletic Complex in Olivet. The tie prevented the Flying Dutchmen from clinching an outright MIAA championship.

Both teams had chances to score a goal. Olivet's best chance came in the first overtime. Off a free kick from just outside the box, freshman Cole Dehen (Kentwood/East Kentwood) used his left foot to rip a shot, which faded away towards the far post. Hope keeper Logan Neil made a great save on the shot. Olivet keeper Ethan Felsing (Mason) also made some outstanding saves to keep the game scoreless.

For the game, Hope had 23 shots, including 12 on-goal. Chris Harrison led the way with five. Olivet finished with 10 shots, and freshman Jake Jensen (Vicksburg) topped the team with three shots. Felsing collected 11 saves.

This season, Olivet proved to be a factor in Hope's chance to clinch the MIAA title. In addition to today's tie, Hope's only loss in MIAA play and at its own new Van Andel Soccer Stadium came at the hands of the Comets, 1-0, on Oct. 10.

Olivet will wrap-up the 2009 season Saturday when it plays at Alma College. Game time at Scotland Yard is 2 p.m. With a win, the Comets will secure at least fourth-place in the final league standings. If Olivet beats the Scots, and Kalamazoo College either ties or loses to Trine University, Olivet will finish in third-place.