ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Bethel University men's soccer team delivered a remarkable second-half comeback Saturday afternoon, overcoming a three-goal deficit to defeat Hamline University 4-3 in MIAC action at Paterson Field. The Royals scored four unanswered goals, including two in the final four minutes, to secure their first conference victory of the season.
Hamline jumped out to an early advantage, scoring twice in the opening 12 minutes before adding a penalty kick goal in the 34th minute to take a 3-0 lead.
Bethel began its comeback in the 40th minute when Devin Igl found the back of the net for his first goal of the season, cutting the deficit to 3-1 heading into halftime.
The Royals carried that momentum into the second half, increasing their offensive pressure and creating opportunities throughout the final 45 minutes.
Tadeo Magana brought Bethel within one in the 51st minute, converting a penalty kick for his fourth goal of the season to make it a 3-2 match.
Bethel continued to push forward, generating 13 second-half shots and six corner kicks as it searched for the equalizer.
The breakthrough came in the 87th minute when Minty Shady converted a penalty kick for his first goal of the season, tying the match at 3-3 with just over three minutes remaining.
With the momentum firmly on their side, the Royals completed the comeback in dramatic fashion.
Sawyer Owens found the back of the net with just 24 seconds remaining in regulation, scoring his third goal of the season to give Bethel a stunning 4-3 advantage.
The Royals held on through the final seconds to complete the four-goal comeback and earn the conference victory.
Bethel finished with an 18-13 advantage in total shots, including a 13-2 edge in the second half. The Royals also held a 7-5 advantage in corner kicks and put seven shots on goal compared to five for Hamline.
Goalkeeper Griffin Blokker recorded two saves, both coming in the opening half, while the Bethel defense held Hamline without a shot on goal over the final 45 minutes.
The victory improves Bethel to 4-9-2 overall and 1-4-2 in MIAC play.
Up Next: Bethel returns home Wednesday, Oct. 21, to host Augsburg University in MIAC action at Ona Orth Athletic Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
