SALEM, Ore. – Tension loomed over the waning moments of the No. 20-ranked Corban University men's soccer team's match against the University of Providence Argos on Saturday afternoon, but the Navy and Gold demonstrated poise and composure to seal the victory, 1-0. The win brings the Warriors' Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) record to 4-0 on the still-young 2018 season.
"Our group did what we needed to do during our initial four-game conference home stand," said Corban head coach Aaron Lewis. "I think we not only got results, but we found out more about where we need to grow to meet our final goals. It will be important for us to take steps forward in training this week as we prepare for really good opponents."
In the early minutes of the second half, a Providence foul committed roughly 25 yards from goal proved costly for the Argos. Corban elected Camilo Avendano to take the free kick, and while Argos goalkeeper Marc Girones valiantly saved Avendano's strike, an unmarked Kohl Hurtado blasted the save into the back of the net to give Warriors the lead.
To hear what Hurtado had to say after the game, CLICK HERE.
The goal would prove to be all the scoring the Navy and Gold would need, as Corban was able to endure a frantic Providence attack in the final minutes to clinch its fourth conference victory. Jordan Salim was crucial between the pipes in the triumph, punching out a number of dangerous crosses from the Argos attack, finishing with three saves in his second-consecutive shutout.
The Argos competed courageously throughout the contest, but despite their late offensive frenzy, they were unable to find an equalizer. Girones was notably exceptional in goal for Providence in the loss, showcasing impressive athleticism in his six saves.
In the end, Lewis and his squad came away with three valuable points in CCC play, while demonstrating remarkable composure in a game that featuring flared tempers and numerous high-pressure moments.
CLICK HERE to listen to Lewis' thoughts on his team's poise in the triumph.
The Warriors (7-1, 4-0 CCC) will now travel south for their first CCC road set, taking on Oregon Tech and Southern Oregon this weekend in a pair of crucial conference contests. Both matches are set to kick-off at 3:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
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