Stallion Soccer Recap: North American University vs. ASC New Stars – A Battle to the Final Whistle
By: Rev. Justin C. Jackson
Stallion Soccer Recap: North American University vs. ASC New Stars – A Battle to the Final Whistle
August 20, 2024 – Ronald Thornton Field
In a clash that had fans on their feet and hearts racing until the final whistle, the North American University Stallions took on ASC New Stars in a match that showcased the very essence of NAIA men's soccer. Under the lights of Ronald Thornton Field, the Stallions proved they have the grit, the skill, and the determination to compete at the highest level, even if the final score didn't reflect their fighting spirit.
First Half: Trading Blows Early
ASC New Stars came out swinging, and in the 10th minute, they found the back of the net when T. Ahmadi finished off a slick assist from D. Herrera. The Stallions, however, were unfazed. Just three minutes later, Andrew Gonzalez soared above the defense to meet a pinpoint cross from Eric Landaverde, heading home the equalizer and sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The Stallions' quick response was a testament to their resilience and readiness to match ASC New Stars blow for blow.
Second Half: A Tactical Tug-of-War
The second half saw ASC New Stars tighten their grip on the game, controlling possession and patiently probing the Stallions' defense. In the 21st minute, J. Love, capitalizing on a perfect cross from former Stallion Carlos Arboleda, headed ASC New Stars back into the lead. Arboleda, who played with a mix of familiarity and finesse, showed why he's a player to watch, even as he broke the hearts of his former teammates.
But if there's one thing we know about these Stallions, it's that they never back down. NAU pushed back, upping the tempo and pressing hard for the equalizer. Tactical shifts from the sidelines saw more attacking players enter the fray, as Coach Jackson urged his team to leave it all on the field.
Final Push and the Heart-Stopping Finale
As the minutes waned, the Stallions threw everything at ASC United. In the 90th minute, with the crowd urging them on, Reynaldo Vanegas latched onto a brilliant pass from Gabriel Da Cunha, slotting it home to bring the Stallions within one. The energy in the stadium was electric, but time was the enemy. Despite their relentless push, the clock ran out on the Stallions, sealing a narrow 3-2 victory for ASC New Stars.
Key Stats and Standout Performances
ASC New Stars J. Love and former Stallion Carlos Arboleda were the night's standout performers for the visitors, with Love netting the decisive goal and Arboleda providing a critical assist.
Coach Jackson's Take: A Fight to the Finish
"We knew this was going to be a tough battle, and I'm proud of the way our guys fought until the very end. We made some adjustments that nearly paid off, but credit to ASC New Stars—they played a solid game. This one stings, but we'll take the lessons learned and come back stronger. We're Stallions, and we never stop charging forward."
The Stallions may have fallen short on the scoreboard, but their performance was anything but disappointing. With heads held high and eyes set on the next challenge, North American University remains a force to be reckoned with in the NAIA. The season is still young, and these Stallions have plenty of fight left in them. Stay tuned, Stallion Nation—this ride is just getting started!
