Box Score HOW IT HAPPENED
Nebraska Wesleyan opened their season with a thrilling 2-1 victory against Westminster at Kent & Judith Mueller Stadium in Fulton, Mo. on August 30, 2024. The Prairie Wolves struck first late in the first half when
Zachary McClanathan found the back of the net unassisted at the 42:39 mark, giving Nebraska Wesleyan a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
However, Westminster quickly responded in the second half, leveling the score at 1-1 just a few minutes after the break. Tigran Topchain scored the equalizer at the 47:58 mark, assisted by Niklas Olsson. The momentum seemed to be shifting in Westminster's favor, but Nebraska Wesleyan maintained their composure.
Just over five minutes later,
Jaden Hayes, who had been a key player throughout the match, capitalized on an assist from
Samuel Schendt to put the Prairie Wolves back in the lead at 53:22. Despite facing increased pressure from Westminster, Nebraska Wesleyan's defense held strong, with goalkeeper
Zachary Weis making three crucial saves to preserve the victory.
Things got physical and chippy down the stretch.
Jaden Hayes received a yellow card in the 85th minute and a red card in the 87th minute, reducing Nebraska Wesleyan to 10 men in the final moments of the game. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Prairie Wolves held on to secure the win.
Nebraska Wesleyan recorded a total of 10 shots, with seven on target, while Westminster outshot them with 13 attempts but only managed four on target. The Prairie Wolves also earned eight corner kicks compared to Westminster's four.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
UP NEXT
Nebraska Wesleyan will return to action on tomorrow when they returns to St. Louis to play Principia. Game time is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
