By Jordan Wyatt October 16, 2013
(SANTA BARBARA, Calif.) Despite notching the initial goal of the match, enjoying a halftime lead, and outshooting the nation's #12 team 15-11 Wednesday afternoon, Westmont Men's Soccer (6-5, 2-3 GSAC) faltered at home against foe Concordia (8-3, 5-0) 2-1.
Senior Nana Akyen commanded the Warriors offensively, generating seven shots (three on goal) while recording his fourth score of the year on an unassisted goal in the 18th minute.
In a brilliant display of futbol flair, Akyen raided an Eagle player of the ball on a timely tackle, eluded two more defenders on a nifty crossover dribble, and released a dart from 19 yards out that found the back of the net.
Despite a 1-0 lead at the break, as well as two-thirds of their shot attempts materializing in the second half, the last 45 minutes were not as fortuitous for Akyen and the Warriors. Ultimately, Concordia managed to stymie the Westmont attack and score two goals to secure the road victory.
Both Eagle scores were the hefty consequence of mistakes by Westmont squad members. The first was a header goal set up by a free kick given after a Warrior foul. The second came on a breakaway after an arid pass was intercepted in the Warrior defensive third.
Even with the loss, sophomore Tanner Wolf, who was celebrating his birthday Wednesday, received post-game praise from the coaching staff for providing much needed structure and continuity in the midfield throughout the contest.
Although the Warriors are still in good shape to battle their way into postseason play – as six of eight GSAC teams make the conference tournament – Westmont head coach Dave Wolf recognizes that his team has squandered some key opportunities this season.
"The sad truth for our guys is that right now they are an underachieving team. In reality, they should be doing better than they are doing. They have had every opportunity to be better and haven't come through," said a disappointed Wolf.
Wolf also addressed the importance of the Warriors' impending GSAC matchup with Arizona Christian. "When you play at home in this league, you have to get three points. That makes it pretty simple as it relates to this Saturday – we have to get three points in that game."
The Warriors will try to oust the Firestorm at 2:30 this Saturday in an attempt to get season back on track. That game will be played at home on Thorrington Field.
