Quick-Strike Cougars Prevail

AZUSA, CALIF. -- One week ago, Azusa Pacific and The Master's played in a game that had huge GSAC implications and Azusa Pacific sluggishly prevailed 1-0 as each team struggled to find the net.

Today, the same 2 teams stepped onto the same field, this time playing for their season. Offense was not a problem as the Cougars struck twice just 40 seconds apart in the first 2 minutes to defeat the Mustangs, 2-1, in the semifinal round of the NAIA Region II playoffs.

With the win, the Cougars, ranked No. 11 in the NAIA, advance to the region finals for the fourth consecutive year. The Cougars will face No. 3-seed Alliant International, which defeated Westmont, 1-0, in Santa Barbara. Meanwhile, The Master's season comes to a close as the Mustangs finish 17-3 and ranked No. 16 in the NAIA.

Sophomore Michael Dwinnel picked up an errant Mustang pass and fired it into the net to give the Cougars a 1-0 lead just 1:01 into the match.

Just 40 seconds later, senior Matt Evans struck a corner kick that junior Jacob Ward tucked away for a 2-0 Azusa Pacific at 1:41 in the opening half.

The Mustangs mounted a furious rally as time was winding down in the first half but were unable to find the net. Again, they mounted pressure, but the Cougar defense stood tall.

Finally, with 4:25 remaining, the Mustangs struck, but it was too little too late as the Cougars escaped with another thrilling victory. Senior GK Scott Strahammer collected 5 saves on the day.

Azusa Pacific is now 16-1-2 on the season and is just one win away from advancing to the NAIA Tournament for the first time since 1996. The Cougars will face Alliant International Saturday (Nov. 10) at 1 p.m. in San Diego.

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Players Mentioned

#6 Jacob Ward: D; 6' 1"; Junior

#11 Matt Evans: MF; 6' 0"; Senior

Players Mentioned

#6 Jacob Ward
: 6' 1"; Junior
: D

#11 Matt Evans
: 6' 0"; Senior
: MF

Players Mentioned

#6 Jacob Ward

#11 Matt Evans

Players Mentioned

#6 Jacob Ward

#11 Matt Evans