(BETHANY, Okla.)---Southern Nazarene University men’s soccer player, Ryan Allen, was named an NAIA Honorable Mention All-American on Saturday it was announced by the NAIA.

Allen, a junior defender from Neustadt, Germany, was a First Team All-Sooner Athletic Conference selection after finishing the year with two goals and three assists. Allen helped SNU to a 9-6-2 record and a 7-2 (2nd place) finish in the Sooner Athletic Conference.

To view the complete NAIA All-America team, click here… 
2009 NAIA All-American team

(BETHANY, Okla.)---Southern Nazarene University’s men’s soccer program placed two individuals on the NAIA’s Scholar Athlete list it was announced by the NAIA on Friday. SNU’s J.P. Hanger and Alwin Gherghescu each earned Scholar Athlete honors for 2009.

Hanger, a senior defender from Norman, earns his second consecutive Scholar Athlete honor while Gherghescu, a senior forward from Frankfurt, Germany, earns his second consecutive Scholar Athlete award as well in 2009.

NAIA Scholar Athletes are nominated by their head coach and must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and have achieved junior academic status.

SNU finished up the 2009 season with a 9-6-2 record and a 7-2 mark in SAC play under 2nd year head coach, George Schroeder.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---David Otieno of USAO headed up the Sooner Athletic Conference’s All-SAC Men’s Soccer team as Player and Newcomer of the Year, it was announced Saturday.

Otieno, a junior midfielder from Nairobi, Kenya, led the Drovers with 24 goals and added nine assists for 57 points, helping Coach of the Year Jimmy Hampton’s squad to the SAC title with a 16-2-1 overall record.

Oklahoma City’s Alex Gang, a junior forward from Seoul, South Korea, was named Offensive Player of the Year after scoring 22 goals and recording two assists.

Kenton Farris of Southern Nazarene was named Goalkeeper of the Year. The sophomore from Sherman, Texas, had 78 saves on the year.

Oklahoma Christian defender Ryan Frampton, a senior from Moore, Okla., was named Defensive Player of the Year.

Farris, Frampton, Gang and Otieno, along with Oklahoma City’s Andy Fitzpatrick, Chris Spendlove, John Dill, Stuart Hilton and Luke Garvey; Southern Nazarene’s Ryan Allen and Mike Bray, Oklahoma Christian’s Ryan Fernandes, Mid-America Christian’s Andrew Webster, and Oklahoma Baptist’s Victor Costa made the All-SAC First Team.

The Second Team included Tim Spencer of Oklahoma Christian, Sean Surridge, Enrique Souza and Dez Fitzgerald of Rogers State, Aiden Ashmore and Niall Crick of USAO, J.P Hanger, Isaac Juarez and Eric Ouedraogo of Southern Nazarene, Steven Short of Oklahoma City, Joel Thomas, Gabriel Duarte and Juan Iraola of John Brown, and Igor Manfro of St. Gregory’s.

All-SAC Full Listing

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer season came to a close on Monday evening in a heart breaking double-overtime loss to Oklahoma City University in the Sooner Athletic Conference semi-finals at Harmon Field. After putting up a strong fight, and nearly forcing the decision into penalty kicks, SNU came up short, falling in the final seven seconds on the second overtime period. The 3-2 loss dropped the Storm to 9-6-2 on the season and 7-3 in SAC play.

Box Score

SNU dominated the first 15 minutes of the game and got on the board first when Isaac Juarez played a beautiful ball to Mike Bray, who turned and faced up to goal, taking a few touches past his defender to the top, right side of the 18 yard box, and firing a low bullet to the far post and into the back of the net to give the Storm a 1-0 lead in the sixth minute of the game.

Continuing to dominate, SNU had two more great opportunities to score, and Bray nearly got his second goal of the day on a free kick from 25-yards out, but the OCU goalkeeper, Andy Fitzpatrick tipped the shot over the goal and the margin remained narrow for Bray and SNU. Just minutes later, JP Hanger looked to increase SNU’s lead as well, making a play on the ball on a Storm corner kick, but Fitzpatrick came up with another save and the Storm lead remained 1-0.

The Stars began to attack after struggling to get the ball in threatening territory for the first 15 minutes of play and Alex Gang gave the Stars their first goal of the game at the 19:21 mark, tying the game 1-1. Both teams continued to battle for the remainder of the half, but neither could find a goal and the game remained even at the half.

The clash continued in the second half with SNU and OCU both hungry for the lead. The Stars were first the threaten in the half, but their first attempt to score just under 10 minutes into the half was shut down in a team effort from SNU goalkeeper, Kenton Farris, and defender Matt Wilkowske. An OCU forward got in behind the Storm defense, and Farris stepped on the goal line, blocking a powerful shot near the top of the 18 yard box. Another Stars forward stepped in the clean up, firing another shot on goal. Fortunately for SNU, Wilkowske had dropped in behind Farris when he left the goal, and he made a huge save, clearing the ball out of the back as it was headed in the goal.

The Storm pressured the OCU defense later in the half, fighting for a goal and finding the back of the net with 19:37 remaining in the game. Just before the shot fell into the goal however, the whistle was blown for a free kick following a handball from an OCU midfielder. The whistle negated the goal, and the game remained tied, 1-1.

Time continued to tick of the clock, and the Stars looked for another goal with ten minutes remaining, but Farris came up with a huge save to preserve the tie. Following the save, SNU countered, coming up short on two golden opportunities before the clock ticked below five minutes.

The Stars were hungry for a goal however, and with 2:33 remaining, Gang gave OCU the 2-1 lead after Farris blocked a low, hard shot that was fired on frame. Gang followed, and buried a shot in the far corner of the net to put the Stars on top.

It seemed as if the game would slip away following the goal, but SNU refused to back down to the challenge, finding a goal with 1:37 to play to tie the game at two and force the first of two golden goal overtime periods. Todd Wetmore dribbled towards the end line on the left side of the field, slotting a pass back into the center of the box. Fitzpatrick got a hand on the cross, but JP Hanger crashed the goal and the ball sailed into the air before falling into the back of the net.

The first ten minute overtime period was evenly matched, but neither team found a good opportunity to score and a second overtime was the result. Again, SNU and OCU searched for the back of the net, and the physical play resulted in several fouls called. With 3:35 remaining, the Storm had an opportunity to get the win on a free kick from JP Hanger that went just wide.

With time ticking away, it looked as if the game would surely be forced into penalty kicks, but with seven seconds remaining on the clock, the referee called a foul on SNU in the box, resulting in an OCU penalty kick that found the back of the net and gave the Stars the 3-2 victory over the Storm.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---It all comes down to this week for the Crimson Storm. Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament play is upon us and tonight SNU will host long-time rival, Oklahoma City, in the Semifinals of the SAC Tournament.

The Crimson Storm ended the regular season on a high note, defeating OCU a week ago right here on Harmon Field. The Storm won that game, 2-1, in overtime thanks to a Ryan Allen goal off a Mike Bray assist.

Last week’s game was typical of this rivalry; competitive and down-to-the-wire and tonight promises to be another classic.

What is on the line tonight for SNU and OCU is not only a trip to the SAC Championship game on Thursday, but also a shot at the NAIA National Tournament. The winner of this tourney will earn an automatic spot in the national tournament.

Looking at the last time these two teams met, SNU was out-shot by the Stars 17-16 last Tuesday night. SNU did have one more shot on goal, 5-4, than the Stars.

OCU took the lead 1-0 at the 24:57 mark of the first half when Peiman Pahlevan scored unassisted. The Stars held a 1-0 halftime lead but SNU answered late in the second half when Thierry Gakire tied the game off an Isaac Juarez assist. Ryan Allen’s game-winning goal came in the 102nd minute of overtime to seal the Crimson Storm win.

SNU leads the series all-time 29-26-1.

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SNU vs. OCU

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Game Day Program

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Live Stats

 

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team will be the 2nd-seed in the Sooner Athletic Conference tournament set to begin on Friday. By virtue of being the #2 seed, SNU will receive a first round bye in the six-team tournament. SNU is slated to host the semifinal game of the tournament on Monday, November 9th at Harmon Field. SNU will play 3rd-seeded Oklahoma City at 7:00 p.m. on Monday night.

Below is the tournament schedule. All games are played on the higher seeded teams home field.

First Round
Friday, November 6th
(4) Rogers State def. (5) Oklahoma Christian, 1-0
(3) Oklahoma City def. (6) John Brown, 2-0

Semifinals
Monday, November 9th
(4) Rogers State at (1) USAO, TBA
(3) Oklahoma City at (2) Southern Nazarene, 7:00 PM

Thursday, November 12th
Championship game at highest seed

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team moved in to second place in the SAC with a victory over the Oklahoma City Stars on Tuesday evening on senior night. With the thrilling 2-1 overtime victory SNU improves to 9-5-2 on the season and 7-2 in conference play. The victory also secured the Storm’s spot as the number two seed in the SAC tournament, giving SNU a first round bye.

Box Score

Oklahoma City found the back of the net first, putting a low shot into the far corner of the goal to take a 1-0 lead at the 24:57 mark of the game. The Stars kept the pressure on, nearly scoring again later in the half. An OCU forward took a touch towards goal and fired a shot on frame, but SNU goalkeeper, Kenton Farris, slid in and blocked the shot. The Stars forward followed, hitting another shot on frame while Farris was still down, but Storm defender, Tyler Lister kicked the ball straight into the air just before it crossed the goal line and Matt Wilkowske cleared the ball out of the back to keep the margin at one.

SNU and OCU continued to battle throughout the half, and Ryan Allen nearly tied the game with a shot from the right sideline late in the first half, but it went wide and the Stars remained in the lead after the first 45 minutes of play.

The second half was evenly matched throughout, and the Stars defense kept the Storm offense at bay for the majority of the half. In addition to keep SNU’s offense from find the back of the net, OCU kept the pressure on offensively firing several shots on goal. As time began ticking away in the game, SNU finally got on the board to tie the game. Isaac Juarez played a beautiful through ball up the middle of the field, and Thierry Gakire sprinted ahead, reaching the ball before the charging goalkeeper and firing a shot into the back of the net to tie the game, 1-1 with 6:48 remaining in the game.

The battle continued, and both teams fought for the lead for the remaining minutes of the half, but neither could find the back of the net and the game was forced into overtime.

Early in the first ten minute overtime period, it looked as if the Stars would steal the win away on SNU’s senior night, but Farris forced the OCU forward to fire wide, and play continued. The Storm wasted little time responding, taking the 2-1 victory in the 102nd minute of the game with a thrilling goal from Ryan Allen.

Eric Ouedraogo dribbled at goal, forcing the keeper to come off his line. It looked as is Ouedraogo had lost the battle, and the OCU keeper attempted the make a play on the ball but SNU’s Mike Bray got in the way, pulling the ball away from the keeper, back towards the 18 yard box where Allen awaited. With the keeper out, Allen took advantage of the opportunity and fired a bullet into the back of the net to give SNU the exciting victory.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---Everything stills lies ahead for the Crimson Storm as the regular season comes to a close tonight at Harmon Field. The Crimson Storm is 8-5-2 on the year and 6-2 in Sooner Athletic Conference play with cross-town rival, Oklahoma City, coming to town.

With a win tonight, SNU would claim 2nd in the SAC this season and earn the SAC tournament’s #2 seed. The benefit of being a #1 or #2 seed is that the Storm would draw a bye in the opening round of the SAC tournament set to begin on Friday. The Storm is assured a spot in the tournament and will be no lower than the #3 seed regardless of what happens tonight, but SNU would love to draw the bye in round one.

SNU will host their first game in the tournament as well regardless of what happens as the tournament is played on the higher seeds home field.

There is a bunch riding on tonight’s outcome as a win puts SNU as the tourney’s #2 seed and bumps OCU to #3, while an OCU win secures the 2nd spots for the Stars and relegates SNU to #3.

This rivalry has been one of the best in small-college soccer over the years. SNU and OCU have met 55 times over the years with the Crimson Storm holding a slight edge of 28-26-1.

Last year, Oklahoma City won the lone meeting between the two schools at OCU, 1-0. In their last ten meetings, SNU holds a 7-2-1 advantage.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

SNU vs. OCU

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Game Day Program

(CLAREMORE, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team erased a disappointing loss at home to St. Gregory’s on Tuesday night by beating Rogers State in Claremore on Friday night, 2-1. The win improves SNU to 8-5-2 on the year and 6-2 in Sooner Athletic Conference play.

Box Score

After a scoreless first half, SNU came out in the final 45 minutes of play hungry for the lead, but the scoreboard remained unchanged until the 62nd minute of the game when SNU’s leading goal scorer found the back of the net.

Mike Bray scored the games first goal after a blocked shot from Jakob Jones. Bray netted the unassisted goal after the deflected shot, and put SNU ahead 1-0 at the 62:06 mark of the half.

Four minutes later, Bray put SNU up 2-0, scoring what proved to be the game-winning goal. Isaac Juarez crossed a beautiful ball into the RSU goal box, and Bray made an impressive play on the ball, sending a bicycle kick into the corner of the net at the 66:56 mark to put the Storm ahead 2-0.

Rogers State got on the board for the first time at the 72:30 mark when Brett Jones scored off a Henrique Sousa assist to cut the Storm lead to 2-1, but RSU’s first goal proved to be their final goal as SNU hung on for the 2-1 victory.

In goal, SNU’s Ricky Cabello picked up the win, finishing with three saves and one goal allowed in 90 minutes of work. Cabello came up with several big plays for the Storm with time ticking away to ice away the win.

SNU will close out regular season play on Tuesday night at home against Oklahoma City. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m., following the senior night presentations.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team fell 1-2 to the Cavaliers of St. Gregory's University on Tuesday evening at Harmon Field. SNU scored first, but SGU battled back, rallying with two unanswered goals to steal the win away. With the loss, the Storm drops to 7-5-2 on the season and 5-2 in SAC play.

Box Score

SNU got on the board first, finding a goal in the eighth minute of the game when Eric Ouedraogo placed the ball into the corner past SGU’s goalkeeper to give the Storm a 1-0 lead early in the game.

Unfortunately for SNU, the Cavaliers battled back, tying the game at one later in the half with a goal from Antony Moore. With the game tied, the Storm continued to battle but SGU held strong in the back and the game remained tied at the half.

Following the break, SGU came up fired up, finding the back of the net once again at the 59:52 mark of the game to take their first lead of the night, 2-1. SNU had several chances to get a goal back, with two golden opportunities coming in the last twenty minutes of the half. Alwin Gherghescu looked to volley a cross into the far corner of the net, but the shot flew over the goal and the Storm continued to trail. Another opportunity came minutes later, but again SNU could not find the back of the net.

With time ticking away, the Storm battled for possession and kept the ball in the offensive end of the field. JP Hanger nearly tied the game at two with a header on a corner kick from Isaac Juarez, but unfortunately for SNU, the shot was deflected before it reached the goal. With just two minutes remaining in the half, Todd Wetmore fired a shot at goal, but it was deflected for a corner and the Storm couldn’t convert on the opportunity.

The Cavaliers iced the game away, and SNU dropped their second conference game of the year. The Storm will be in action again on Friday evening in Claremore, Oklahoma when they will take on Rogers State University at 7:00 p.m.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---SNU picked up their third straight win on Saturday night with a 5-1 domination of Mid-America Christian here at Harmon Field. The win helps SNU equal their longest winning streak of the year at three and tonight SNU looks to increase their streak to four games.

While their record may be a bit deceiving, SNU has played solid soccer all season long. Of SNU’s four losses, three were to teams that are currently ranked. And, since the beginning of conference play in late September, the Storm has been outstanding, winning five of seven games including winning five of their first six SAC contests.

SNU is right in the middle of the battle for the SAC regular season title as well with three games remaining. USAO is unblemished in SAC play at 6-0, but the Drovers still have road games at OCU (5-1) and Oklahoma Baptist (1-4) and will host Wayland Baptist (0-7) to end the regular season.

SNU and OCU follow USAO in second place with identical 5-1 conference records. The Stars have the toughest road left with games left at OBU (1-4) tonight, USAO at home (6-0) and SNU on the road next Tuesday night. SNU has St. Gregory’s (1-5) tonight, Rogers State (4-2-1) away on Friday and OCU to end the season at home next Tuesday night.

As you can see, it should be very interesting down the stretch in the race for the SAC crown.

SNU’s opponent tonight, St. Gregory’s, comes in with a 5-9 record and a 1-5 mark in the SAC. All-time, SNU leads this series 12-8-1.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

SNU vs. St. Gregory's

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Game Day Program

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team prevailed once again in SAC play, destroying the Mid-America Christian Evangels 5-1 on Saturday evening at Harmon Field. With the win, SNU improved to 7-4-2 on the season and 5-1 in conference play. SNU controlled the 90-minute game, out-shooting MACU 21-to-9.

Box Score

After failing to put the ball in the back of the net for the majority of the first half, SNU finally found a goal in the 32nd minute of the game. Alwin Gherghescu and Eric Ouedraogo combined for the first goal of the game, with the assist coming for Gherghescu. Ouedraogo was deep in the opponents goal box when he received the past and found the back of the net to give the Storm a 1-0 lead with just over ten minutes remaining in the half.

Gherghescu found a goal of his own just eight minutes later, scoring at the 40:42 mark to give SNU a 2-0 lead with time ticking away in the first half. The Storm’s dominant play in the first half resulted in a 2-0 lead at the break, but the margin would become much wider in the second half.

Continuing to control the game, the Storm got off to an early goal-scoring start in the second half, finding the back of the net just six minutes in. Ryan Allen gave Mike Bray a perfect ball, chipping the MACU defense and giving Bray room to work with. Pulling the ball out of the air, Bray took his first touch to goal and placed the ball into the far right corner of the goal to give SNU a three-goal lead in the 51st minute of the game.

Adding another goal for the Storm just eight minutes later was Ouedraogo once again. Gherghescu played a long ball down the right sideline to Ouedraogo who cut inside towards goal, drawing the MACU goalkeeper away from net. Ouedraogo then forced him to make a move, and touched the ball into the center of the box as the keeper came sliding at his feet. One MACU defender stood between Ouedraogo and the goal, but a beautiful shot left the defender on his heels and SNU took a 4-0 lead at the 59:27 mark of the game.

The Evangels responded shortly after, but the goal would not be enough. The Storm continued to put pressure on the Evangels’ defense, and several shots were fired before SNU tacked on one final goal to seal the deal late in the game.

Ouedraogo dribbled down the left side of the Evangels’ 18 yard box and slotted a ball back towards the penalty spot where Gherghescu attempted to gain control. The ball was deflected further to the right side of the box, but SNU’s Thierry Gakire was there to clean up, pounding a shot into the back of the net to put the Storm ahead 5-1 in the 84th minute of the game.

For the game, SNU’s Kenton Farris saw little action in net and did not record a save, but picked up the win.

The Storm will be in action again on Tuesday evening when they host St. Gregory’s University at 8:00 p.m. for another SAC game.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm are right in the thick of things in the Sooner Athletic Conference regular season race with four games left on the slate. SNU is 6-4-2 overall this season and 4-1 in SAC play, a half game back of 2nd place Oklahoma City.

USAO sits atop the conference standings with a perfect 5-0 record. The 21st ranked Drovers defeated SNU earlier in the year in Chickasha, 3-1; so, SNU will need help if they are going to have a shot at the conference crown. USAO still has to travel to OCU and today, the Drovers host 4th place John Brown.

Every game is crucial for Southern Nazarene from here on out. SNU is facing must-win situations for the remainder of the year. The good news is the Crimson Storm are playing good soccer right now, riding a two-game win streak heading into tonight’s SAC game with Mid-America Christian. SNU can equal their longest winning streak of the season at three with a win tonight.

The other good news is that the Crimson Storm play three of their final four games of the year right here at Harmon Field.

Mid-America Christian comes into tonight’s game with a 7-4 record and a 1-3 mark in conference play.

SNU and Mid-America met for the first time last year at MACU in a game the Storm won 1-0.

The season all comes down to the next few weeks for Southern Nazarene. Keep winning, and the Storm could have a shot at a SAC crown and another appearance at nationals.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

SNU vs. Mid-America Christian

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Game Day Program

(OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men's soccer team used a 30-yard free kick goal from Thierry Gakire with under a minute to play to grab a big conference road win at Oklahoma Christian on Tuesday night.  Gakire's goal was the lone goal of the night and gave Southern Nazarene the 1-0 victory.  The win moves SNU to 6-4-2 on the year and 4-1 in Sooner Athletic Conference play.  SNU is now a half game back of Oklahoma City for second place.  USAO is all alone in first with a 5-0 conference mark. 

Box Score

The Storm and the Eagles battled throughout the first half, and both teams threatened deep in the box several times. Early in the first half, OC nearly put the ball in the back of the net but SNU midfielder, Robert Nakaya, made a sliding save with his foot just inches from the goal line. SNU and OC continued to pressure, but neither team could put the ball in  the back of the net after 45 minutes of play.

In the second half, the Storm took control and possessed the ball well, keeping the Eagles from taking many shots on goal. SNU, however, fired at goal several times before finally finding the back of the net. With under ten minutes to play, Mike Bray nearly gave the Storm the lead on a free kick from just outside the 18 yard box, but the shot went wide and the game remained scoreless.

Finally, with under a minute to play, Thierry Gakire gave the Storm the 1-0 lead with a beautiful 30-yard free kick. Gakire lined up behind the ball and bent a perfect left footed shot around the Eagles wall and into the left corner of the net to put SNU on top with time ticking away. The goal would prove to be enough, and the Storm held on for the big win over OC.

 

(BETHANY, Okla.)---Southern Nazerene forward Eric Ouedraogo was named Sooner Athletic Conference Men’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Week, respectively, for Oct. 12-18.

Ouedraogo, a junior from Ougadougou, Burkina Faso, turned in a hat trick in SNU’s only match of the week – a 9-2 win against Wayland Baptist.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team improved to 5-4-2 overall and 3-1 in SAC play with a win over Wayland Baptist on Tuesday afternoon at home. SNU gave up an early goal, but battled back to take the lead in the first half.

Box Score

Following a goal from the Pioneers’ Daniel Williams, the Storm began their own scoring campaign, responded with a four-goal run to take a large lead. The first goal of the run came when Ryan Allen crossed a ball into Eric Ouedraogo who fired a hard shot on frame. WBU’s goalkeeper, Zack Baxley, bobbled the shot, forcing a defensive mistake that resulted in a Storm goal that was credited to Ouedraogo.

Minutes later, Mike Bray gave SNU their first lead of the game with a beautifully left footed shot far post on an assist from Thierry Gakire to put SNU on top 2-1 at the 12:26 mark of the half. The goal was Bray’s ninth of the season.

Widening the gap with another goal in the 19th minute of the game was Ouedraogo. Once again, Allen dribbled down the left sideline and swung a cross to the near post. Mike Bray flicked a pass back to Ouedraogo who volleyed the ball into the back of the net to put the Storm ahead 3-1.

SNU didn’t waste any time, tacking on a fourth goal just two minutes later. This time, Gakire picked up an assist, playing a through ball to Alwin Gherghescu who placed the ball into the corner of the goal at the 21:03 mark of the game.

The Storm maintained control for the remainder of the half, creating several more chances to score but failing to capitalize on any.

Once again in the second half, SNU let little time tick off the clock before they added another goal to take a 5-1 lead over the Pioneers. Bray picked up his second assist of the day, dribbling towards Baxley and forcing him to commit before making a nice pass to Gherghescu who was alone on the right side of the six yard box. Gherghescu finished the shot for his second goal of the game at the 49:09 minute mark.

Wayland Baptist responded less than a minute later, blasting a long free kick from behind half field to find the back of the net to cut the Storm lead to three.

Following the Pioneers goal, SNU continued with their scoring campaign, tacking on their sixth goal of the game with a beautifully placed shot from Ouedraogo. Todd Wetmore attempted to place a shot over Baxley but he came up with a save. Ouedraogo picked up the rebound, and placed the shot around two WBU defenders and into the back of the net to put the Storm on top 6-2 with 34 minutes to play in the game.

Isaac Juarez gave SNU an even wider lead with a fancy goal in the 70th minute of the game. Dribbling deep into the Pioneers’ box, Juarez maintained control of the ball while spinning around a WBU defender, leaving both the defender and the keeper behind him as he placed the ball into the back of the net to give the Storm a 7-2 lead.

With the security of a large lead, several SNU substitutions occurred and the domination continued. Freshman forward, Brady Wedman gave the Storm another goal when he broke free down the left side of the field and chasing down a long ball from Jakob Jones. Wedman took a touch toward goal, and fired a beautiful shot to the near corner of the goal. Wedman’s front flip celebration was nearly as brilliant as his shot, and SNU controlled an 8-2 lead.

With time ticking away, the Storm their final goal of the game when Cory Nolan took a beautiful long throw in from the right sideline and Nick Chafey elevated, sending a header into the back of the net to give SNU a 9-2 win.

Kenton Farris started the game in net for the Storm, grabbing three saves while allowing one goal. Ricky Cabello entered the game at halftime and finished with one save, allowing one goal as well.

The Storm will be in action again next Tuesday at Oklahoma Christian. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---Despite having lost two straight games, Southern Nazarene is still in the mix of the Sooner Athletic Conference race as the season begins to wind down. SNU is 4-4-2 overall and 2-1 in Sooner Athletic Conference play heading into today’s game with SAC newcomer, Wayland Baptist.

The next few games will be crucial for the Crimson Storm if SNU wants to keep their hopes alive for a SAC regular season crown.

As of today, SNU is in fourth place in the conference standings, a half game back of Rogers State. USAO and Oklahoma City sit atop the conference with 3-0 records.

The good news for SNU is that three of their next four games are at home and are against teams with a combined SAC record of 0-8. However, sandwiched in between is a game at Oklahoma Christian (1-1), a team that SNU will have to play on the road next Tuesday.

If SNU can win their next four games, that would set up two big showdowns with Rogers State on October 30th and Oklahoma City to close out the regular season on November 3rd. With four straight SNU wins, those games could both be for the SAC regular season crown depending on what else happens around the SAC the next few weeks.

Wayland Baptist enters today’s game with an 0-10 record overall and a 0-3 mark in SAC play. This year is the first year of men’s soccer at Wayland Baptist.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

Southern Nazarene vs. Wayland Baptist

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Game Day Program

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men's soccer team suffered their second straight loss of the season on Friday afternoon, falling to Bellevue of Nebraska 2-0 at Harmon Field.  The loss drops SNU to 4-4-2 on the year.

Box Score

The game was closely contested in the first half, but Bellevue scored the games only goals just before halftime to seal the victory.  The first goal of the game came just after a Kenton Farris save.  Bellevue's Kyle Kirkland had taken a shot on goal, but Farris saved it, unfortunately, the save ricocheted back to the Bruins Graeme Eaglesham who sent the ball into the goal to give Bellevue the 1-0 lead at the 41:36 mark of the first period.

The games final goal came two minutes later when Bellevue's Tom White found Mark Heath-Preston and Heath-Preston sent a shot past Farris to give Bellevue the 2-0 lead at the 43:56 mark of the first half.  That goal proved to be all Bellevue needed as the Bruins hung on for the 2-0 win.

For the game, Bellevue out-shot SNU 20-15, including launching 14 shots on goal to SNU's three. 

In goal, Farris finished with 12 saves, giving up two goals in 90 minutes of work.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---SNU had their three-game winning streak snapped on Tuesday by Sooner Athletic Conference unbeaten, USAO, in Chickasha, 3-1. Prior to Tuesday’s game with the Drovers, Southern Nazarene had been off to a perfect start in SAC play with wins over John Brown and on the road at Oklahoma Baptist.

Heading into today’s action, SNU is 4-3-2 overall and 2-1 in conference play. SNU is currently in a three-way tie for 3rd place with Rogers State and John Brown, while the Drovers sit atop the SAC with a 3-0 record followed by second place Oklahoma City.
Today, the Crimson Storm will take a break from SAC play and host non-conference opponent Bellevue University of Nebraska.

While today’s game will be a break from the brutal SAC schedule, it will not at all be a step down in competition. Bellevue received 50 votes in the latest NAIA national rankings and sits ahead of SNU in the receiving votes category. The Bruins are 6-2-1 on the year and will be a stern test for the Crimson Storm this afternoon.

SNU and Bellevue have met three times previously, with SNU holding a 2-0-1 record. Their last meeting came last year right here on Harmon Field. SNU won the game 2-1.

After today, SNU will be at home against Wayland Baptist on Tuesday afternoon, followed by a big road game at Oklahoma Christian on the 20th.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

SNU vs. Bellevue

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Game Day Program

(CHICKASHA, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team dropped to 2-1 in Sooner Athletic Conference play and 4-3-2 on the season with a loss at SAC unbeaten USAO on Tuesday in Chickasha. The Drovers got out to an early lead and kept the pressure on, taking a 3-1 win over SNU.

Box Score

USAO scored a lone goal early in the first half to jump out on top of the Storm. SNU pressured the Drovers defense, attempting to get a goal back several times, but falling short in each attempt.

Again in the second half, the Drovers held the momentum, dominating for the majority of the 45 minutes, and extending their lead with two more goals to put SNU on their heels.

Trailing 3-1, the Storm saw the game slowly slipping away as time ticked off the clock. With just under ten minutes to play, Alwin Gherghescu attempted to give his team some life with a hard shot to the bottom right corner of the goal that put the Storm on the board for the first time. Unfortunately, the attempted comeback began too late as the Drover’s iced the game away and SNU picked up their first loss in SAC play.

The Storm will be in action again on Friday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. when they host Bellevue, Nebraska.

(SHAWNEE, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men's soccer team posted their third straight win with an impressive 3-1 victory over Oklahoma Baptist on Friday afternoon in Shawnee. The win improves SNU to 4-2-2 on the year and 2-0 in Sooner Athletic Conference play.

Box Score

Mike Bray and Thierry Gakire were the offensive story for the Crimson Storm as the duo connected on each of SNU's three goals.
Bray, SNU's leading scorer heading into the game, scored the first goal of the day early in the first half off a Thierry Gakire cross to put SNU up 1-0. Gakire sent a beautiful cross from the left side of the field, finding Bray near post. Bray elevated, and flicked a header near post, past a diving OBU goalkeeper.

SNU continued to control the game, and maintained their 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.

Following the break,  OBU tied the game at 1-1 with less than five minutes played in the second half. The Storm didn't waste much time regaining the lead. Gakire scored SNU's second goal, facing the keeper alone and placing the ball into the back of the net on a perfect through ball from Bray. Immediately following the goal, Storm keeper, Kenton Farris, made a huge save in a one-on-one with an OBU forward to preserve SNU's one goal advantage.

With under five minutes to play, SNU iced the game away as Bray scored his eighth goal of the year with another header off a cross from Gakire to put SNU ahead 3-1, a lead SNU held until the end of the game. The assist was Gakire's second of the game and second of the year.

In goal, Farris picked up five saves for the Crimson Storm in the win.

SNU will be in action again on Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. when they travel to Chickasha to take on USAO in their third SAC game of the season.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team picked up a thrilling victory over John Brown University on Tuesday evening, sealing the deal in the last 36 seconds of the game with a game winning goal from Matt Wilkowske. SNU downed JBU 2-1, and with the win, improved to 3-2-2 on the season and 1-0 in Sooner Athletic Conference play.

Box Score

The first half was a busy half for SNU goalkeeper, Kenton Farris, as the Golden Eagles fired several shots on frame, testing Farris on numerous occasions. After several big stops from Farris and the Storm defense, JBU jumped out to an early lead when Gabriel Duarte dribbled along the right end line and slotted the ball to teammate, Josh Baldwin who placed the ball into the far left corner of the net. The goal came at the eighth minute of the game, and the Golden Eagles held the 1-0 advantage.

SNU threatened JBU several times throughout the remainder of the half, but the Golden Eagles held strong and held the lead at the half.

The Storm came out battling in the second half, firing several shots at the Golden Eagles goalkeeper, Ryan Helmer. After coming up short on several opportunities to tie the game, SNU was able to find the back of the net at the 52:38 mark when Mike Bray swung a left footed shot upper 90, giving JBU’s keeper no chance to make a save.

Minutes later, Thierry Gakire nearly gave SNU the lead, following a shot that was blocked by Helmer, but his shot went wide right, and the game remained knotted at one. The Storm kept the offense pressure on JBU, but the Golden Eagles attack kicked in once again and Farris was forced to make several more big saves.

With 17:32 remaining in the game, Ryan Allen had a good look at goal, firing a high shot from about 30-yards out, but aiming about an inch to high, as the bullet sailed over the crossbar.

Time continued to tick away, and the game remaining tied. SNU looked to gain an advantage late in the half, with under four minutes to play, when Bray fired a similar shot to the one that found the back of the net early in the half. But the attempt barely missed, and the game remained tied.

With just :49 remaining, SNU placed the ball on the corner flag, and Isaac Juarez swung in a beautiful ball. The Golden Eagles got to the ball first, however, attempting to clear it out of the box. But SNU’s Matt Wilkowske settled the mis-cleared ball just outside the six-yard box and fired a shot into the right corner of the net to give the Storm a 2-1 lead with only 3_ seconds to play.

SNU held on to win the exciting battle, improving to 1-0 in SAC play. The Crimson Storm will head to Shawnee on Friday afternoon to take on Oklahoma Baptist University at 3:00 p.m.

(BETHANY, Okla.)---SNU picked up a non-conference home win on Friday, knocking off Ottawa University, 3-1. The win helped even SNU’s record at 2-2-2 with the brutal Sooner Athletic Conference schedule looming.

Tonight, SNU will open SAC play with John Brown University. The Golden Eagles are 6-3 on the year and tonight will be JBU’s SAC opener as well.

SNU and John Brown is one of the Sooner Athletic Conference’s longest standing rivalries. The two teams have met 39 times since 1979, with SNU holding a 20-16-3 record versus the Golden Eagles.

SNU has owned this series as of late, winning five of the last six games, with the one blemish being a tie during the 2006 season.

Last year, SNU won 3-1 in Siloam Springs and then again here at Harmon Field in the SAC Tournament, 2-1.

Tonight is a crucial game for both teams, but may be an even bigger game for SNU, given that it is at home. In order to have a shot at the SAC title, you must protect your home field. The Crimson Storm has a tough two-game road stretch ahead as well, heading to Shawnee on Friday for a meeting with Oklahoma Baptist and then again next Tuesday, playing USAO in Chickasha.

To view a statistical comparison of the two teams, click here...

SNU vs. John Brown

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Game Day Program

(BETHANY, Okla)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team picked up their second win of the season with a 3-1 victory over Ottawa, Kansas on Friday evening. The Storm struck early, and refused to back down as they increased their lead to three before giving up a late goal. The win moves SNU to 2-2-2 on the season.

Box Score

SNU got off to an early start, taking a 1-0 lead just ten minutes into the first half. Todd Wetmore played the ball to the tight corner of the 18-yard box, and Thierry Gakire dribbled inches closer to goal before firing a low shot to the bottom left corner of the goal to give the Storm an early advantage over the Braves.

The Storm didn’t settle for the narrow lead, taking advantage of the Ottawa defense once again just minutes later. Widening the gap for SNU was Mike Bray. Isaac Juarez dribbled up the middle of the field, drawing the Braves defense with him, and freeing up Bray on the left side of the field. Juarez played the ball across the face of the 18-yard box and Bray blasted a shot into the top left corner of the goal, giving SNU the 2-0 with at the 17:48 mark of the game.

With under a minute remaining in the half, the Storm nearly took at three-goal lead when Alwin Gherghescu sent a low cross into the six-yard box. Bray ran on, attempting to volley the ball into the back of the net, but he just missed and SNU held the 2-0 lead after 45 minutes of play.

The second half was much slower paced than the first, as both teams struggled to maintain possession. After a quiet 20 minutes, SNU added a cushion to what seemed to be an already secure lead. Gherghescu received a pass about 25-yards away from the Braves goal, and fired a low bullet to the far right corner of the goal, giving the Storm a 3-0 lead in the 68th minute of the game.

Stealing away the Storm’s shut out, with less than ten minutes to play, was Ottawa’s Zac Huffman, who finished an opportunity deep in the SNU goal box.

In the goal for SNU, Kenton Farris started the game, grabbing three saves in 78 minutes of work. Cabello came in late in the game and allowed one goal in his 12 minutes in net for the Storm.

The Crimson Storm will open their Sooner Athletic Conference season at home on Tuesday evening when they host John Brown University at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday night’s home opener was a wild one for the Crimson Storm. Despite trailing 2-0, SNU battled back behind goals from Thierry Gakire and Mike Bray to knot the game at 2-2 against 25th-ranked Kansas Wesleyan.

KWU went back up 3-2, but Alwin Gherghescu’s penalty kick in the 76th minute forced the tie. After two overtimes, the game ended deadlocked at 3.

While tying a top 25 team is good result for the Storm, SNU is ready for a win. SNU has had a tough schedule thus far, with both of their losses coming to top 25 opponents (#22 Texas Brownsville and #4 Baker).

Tonight, SNU will host 2-5 Ottawa University of Kansas.

The Crimson Storm has been led so far this year by junior Mike Bray, who has a team high four goals. Junior Todd Wetmore is right behind Bray with two goals and a team high three assists.

Injuries have continued to be an issue for SNU this season, but the Storm had most of their regular players back in action on Tuesday night.

SNU and Ottawa have met seven times before on the soccer field, with SNU holding a commanding 6-0-1 record. Their last meeting was in 1985 here at Harmon Field. SNU won that meeting 4-0 under former coach, Wes Harmon.

Click here for a statistical comparison of the two teams...

SNU vs. Ottawa

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Game Day Program

(BETHANY, Okla.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team battled through a physical home opener on Tuesday evening when they hosted Kansas Wesleyan. The scrappy, double overtime game lasted well into the evening, and the result was a 3-3 tie after 110 minutes of soccer. The tie moves the Storm to 1-2-2 on the season.

Box Score

SNU got off to a quick start shooting in the first half, as Mike Bray pulled the trigger just 39 seconds into the game. The Storm got off three more shots before Kansas Wesleyan capitalized on an opportunity, putting the ball into the back of the net to take a 1-0 lead at the 11:27 mark.

Arturo Guizar picked up the goal, settling a ball just inside the 18-yard box after SNU attempted to clear the ball out. He sent the shot into the top right corner of the goal, and the Coyotes took an early lead.

Both SNU and KWU continued to battle, in what was a very physical first half, but neither team could find the back of the net, and SNU trailed at the break.

The Coyotes got another goal early in the second half, when Guizar placed a low shot to the far post to give KWU a 2-0 lead. But SNU refused to back down, battling for momentum and possession, while creating several shots before getting their first goal of the night.

With Thierry Gakire breaking down the sideline, Todd Wetmore played the ball into space on the right side of the field. Gakire took a touch towards goal and passed the ball back to Wetmore who was checking across the box. Wetmore didn’t hesitate, heeling the ball back to Gakire who took one touch across his body, and placed a shot into the bottom right corner of the net to cut the Coyotes lead to one at the 53:51 mark of the game.

Just minutes later, Bray battled for the goal that would tie the game at two. Facing only one defender, Bray dribbled towards goal. After getting tangled up with KWU’s last man, Bray twisted away and got off a shot, finding the back of the net to tie the game, 2-2, in the 58th minute of the game.

With momentum on their side, SNU looked to take the lead several times. Niall Best nearly headed the ball in just below the crossbar, but KWU goalkeeper, Kyle Martin, came up with a big save to keep the game knotted. Moments later, Bray broke free on the right side of the field, and blasted a shot from about 20-yards out, but the shot went high.

The Coyotes took the lead again at the 66:52 mark when Jonathan McCormick fired a left-footed shot into the far corner of the goal to give KWU a 3-2 advantage.

The physical battle continued, and with more than three-quarters of the game played, SNU tied things up again. Isaac Juarez broke free towards goal, and with a defender on his hip, he fired a shot at goal just as he was thrown to the ground. The referee allowed the Storm advantage, but after a KWU defender blocked the shot, he whistled for a penalty kick.

Alwin Gherghescu lined up for the PK, and finished the shot, placing a shot in the bottom right corner of the net to tie the game, 3-3 with less than 15 minutes to play.

With just under two minutes remaining in the game, SNU had a golden opportunity to take the lead. Mike Bray dribbled down the right side of the field, sending a low pass across the face of the goal where Thierry Gakire connected, knocking the volley over the top of the goal. Regulation came to an end with the score tied 3-3, and the first ten-minute, golden goal overtime began.

Both SNU and KWU scrapped for a goal in the first overtime period, but neither team could find the back of the net and the game was forced into a second overtime. Again, the teams battled, and with the score still tied, 3-3, SNU was given an opportunity to seal the deal. Bray was fouled hard about 30-yards out from goal, and Gherghescu lined up to take the free kick with just :40 remaining. But the shot went high, and time winding down, resulting in a 3-3 tie.

In the goal for SNU, Kenton Farris collected six saves while allowing three goals, and KWU’s Martin grabbed five saves, also allowing three goals.

SNU will be in action again on Friday evening as the host Ottawa, Kansas at 7:00 p.m.

(OLATHE, Kan.)---The Crimson Storm men's soccer team lost in overtime to Baker of Kansas on Saturday 2-1.  SNU falls to 1-2-1 on the year with the loss. 

Box Score 

The Wildcats controlled the first 45 minutes of the game, firing several shots at goal and causing SNU to work extremely hard on the defensive end. Sophomore goalkeeper, Kenton Farris picked up several big saves to keep Baker off the scoreboard in the first half.

Baker was first to get on the board in the in the second half, getting behind the Storm defense and putting the ball past goalkeeper, Ricky Cabello, who came in at the half. The goal came just over 10 minutes into the half, and the Wildcats took a 1-0 lead. SNU responded minutes later, however, knotting the game at one.

Todd Wetmore dribbled deep into Wildcat territory, and found Isaac Juarez making a run into the box. Baker’s goalkeeper came out to challenge the cross and Juarez tapped the ball away to teammate Mikey Bray, who drove a shot into the open net to tie things up less than halfway through the first half.

SNU’s Alwin Gherghescu has a near goal almost ten minutes later, but Baker’s goalkeeper came up with a big save on the shot. Both the Storm and the Wildcats continued to battle, firing shots at goal when opportunities arose.

With time winding down, Baker blasted a shot toward the bottom right corner of SNU’s goal, but Cabello came up with an outstanding save. The Storm responded, moving the ball down the field minutes later, and nearly finding a goal when Matt Wilkowske slotted a ball to the near post and Bray slid in for a shot that went just wide. Regulation came to an end, and with the game still tied, 1-1, overtime began.

The teams battled once again, and with time ticking away, Baker challenged a bouncing ball at the top of SNU's box, flicking the ball away from several Storm defenders, and Cabello, and into the open net to capture the 2-1 overtime victory.

 

(OLATHE, Kan.)---The Crimson Storm men's soccer team recorded their first win of the year with a 3-1 victory over MidAmerica Nazarene University on Friday night. SNU improves to 1-1-1 on the year with the victory.

Box Score

After a rough start to the season last weekend, SNU started off Friday night on a strong note and wasted little time scoring their first goal as Todd Wetmore connected just :12 seconds into the game, scoring his first goal of the season off a Ryan Allen assist to give SNU a quick 1-0 lead. Wetmore’s goal proved to be the catalyst for a big night for the junior from Bethany as Wetmore would be responsible for every goal SNU scored in the game, scoring twice and assisting the third goal of the game.

At the 28:44 mark of the first half, Mike Bray scored his second goal of the year off of Wetmore’s assist to put SNU up 2-0. Bray’s goal would prove to be the game-winner for SNU. The Crimson Storm led 2-0 at the break.

MidAmerica got on the board for the first time at the 59:16 mark of the second period when Steve Shaw scored unassisted to cut the SNU lead to 2-1.

With time ticking away and Southern Nazarene clinging to a one goal lead, Wetmore closed out the game at the 82:59 mark of the second half, scoring his second goal of the night off an Isaac Juarez assist to ice the game away. SNU went to win, 3-1.

As a team, MidAmerica out-shot SNU, 24-10, but the Crimson Storm was much more efficient as six of SNU’s ten shots were on goal, while the Pioneers only had nine shots on goal on 24 attempts.

In goal, SNU’s Kenton Farris (1-1) picked up his first win of the year, stopping eight shots and allowing only one to slip by in 90 minutes of work. Matt Gow had three saves and three goals allowed for MNU.

(BROWNSVILLE, Texas)---The 16th-ranked Crimson Storm men's soccer team was defeated by Texas Brownsville on Saturday night, 5-1.  The loss drops SNU to 0-1-1 on the year. 

Box Score

It was a rough night for the Crimson Storm as SNU struggled on both sides of the field.  Texas-Brownsville peppered 21 shots at Southern Nazarene, while the Crimson Storm struggled to get off only seven shots, only three of which were on goal.

UT-Brownsville led 2-0 at halftime and increased their lead to 4-0 before SNU scored for the first time when Ryan Allen knocked a ball into the back of the net at the 64:16 mark of the second half.  Allen's first goal of the season was the lone highlight of the night for SNU as the Scorpions went on to win, 5-1.

In goal, SNU's Kenton Farris picked up the loss, giving up five goals with three saves in 77:22 minutes of work.  UTB's Juan Gamboa had two saves with one goal allowed in 90 minutes of work.

(BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS)---The 16th-ranked Crimson Storm men’s soccer team earned a tie in their season opener on Friday night against the Universit of St. Thomas of Texas. The game was held at the University of Texas at Brownsville and SNU and St. Thomas battled to a 1-1 tie that ended in double overtime. SNU is now 0-0-1 on the year.

Box score

The game was scoreless at halftime after each team fired off seven shots in the first half of play. In the second period, UT Brownsville struck first, scoring off a penalty kick in the 70th minute to take a 1-0 lead.

SNU responded in the 83rd minute when freshman Tyler Lister sent a cross that was picked up by Mike Bray. After beating a defender, Bray pushed the ball past the St. Thomas goalie to knot the game at 1-1.

Bray’s goal proved to be the last of the scoring as the game ended in a 1-1 tie.

For the game, SNU was outshot by St. Thomas, 14-11. St. Thomas had seven shots on goal, while SNU managed only three.

In goal, SNU’s Ricky Cabello surrendered the one penalty kick goal and had seven saves on the night.

SNU will finish up their south Texas road trip on Saturday evening, facing off against Texas-Brownsville at 7:00 p.m.

The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team has a tradition of excellence, making six consecutive trips to the NAIA National Tournament, and producing winning records year after year. Last season, the Storm finished 14-5-1, claiming the SAC Tournament Championship trophy. But SNU fell in their second game at the National Tournament and they will look to bounce back this season.

Following an injury-plagued season in 2008, the Crimson Storm men’s soccer team will begin the 2009 season in good health with strong players in positions from the back to the front. With seven juniors returning who got a lot of playing time last season, SNU will be a more experienced team in ’09. In addition to the returning junior class, the Storm will welcome back several key players who suffered injuries last season.

With experience under their belt, and health restored, the team will be able to focus on the things that presented problems last season, such as finishing. “One of our weaknesses last year was just finishing our chances,” second year head coach George Schroeder said. “If we can concentrate on that a little bit, I think we will be fine.”

Goalkeeper
SNU returns two goalkeepers from last year and both are expected to see significant playing time this season.

Kenton Farris, who started in net last season and got most of the playing time, returns for his sophomore season. “Kenton is a very good keeper and he does a great job. We expect him to step it up even more this year,” coach Schroeder said.

Also returning this year is junior, Ricky Cabello. “He does a great job and he could start for almost any team in our conference. We have the luxury of having two strong goalkeepers and it makes it a battle each and every day,” Schroeder said.

Defense

J.P. Hanger, who was a Second Team All-American two years ago and Honorable Mention All-American last year, is returning from a knee injury. He is the backbone of the SNU defense, and by keeping him healthy will prevent the Storm from taking a step back like they did last year. “With him [Hanger] back things are looking up for us defensively,” Schroeder said.

Also returning in the back will be sophomore, Niall Best. Last season Best saw significant playing time and will look to build off the experience he gained in the center-back position this year. Matt Wilkowske will return for his junior season in the Storm uniform and will battle once again for the starting spot at the outside-back position.

Returning to the Crimson Storm defensive lineup after taking time off from soccer will be Shawn Mingledorff, and Cory Nolan, who both played their freshman seasons at SNU. “We look for a lot of good things out of Shawn,” Schroeder said. The Storm will look for Nolan to step up in the back and supply strength and speed. He will also provide another weapon late in games for SNU with a strong throw in.

Tyler Lister, a freshman from Colorado, will give the Storm depth in the center-back position this season. Lister has the potential to play from the beginning and is a good player who is very good in the air.

Midfield

Returning to the SNU roster this season are several key players that will make up the midfield. The experienced and talented group will help guide the Storm offense, and cushion the defense.

Eric Chavez will return for his senior season and will look to battle for a starting spot after getting limited playing time in his first three seasons at SNU. Ryan Allen, who played in the back for his first two seasons, will move to the midfield this year and provide strong leadership and strength in the middle.

Also returning for his junior year will be Isaac Juarez. “Isaac played a lot last year but was out at the end of the year with injury. Having him back healthy will make a major difference,” Schroeder said. Juarez is one of SNU’s main attacking midfielders and he uses his creativity to make things happen on the field.

Alwin Gherghescu will return to the midfield and provide ever more great leadership. After a touch and go junior season that was plagued by injuries, Gherghescu will bring back his great understanding of the game, and an excellent ability to take control of the game. Also returning will be Todd Wetmore, a junior who saw a lot of playing time last season and gained valuable experience that SNU will look for him to carry over in 2009.

Coby Wright, a sophomore who saw limited minutes last year, will look to make a bigger impact this season. “Coby came in this year in very good shape and has the potential to play on the outside midfield for us,” Schroeder said.

Along with several returning key players in the midfield, SNU will look to some of the newcomers to contribute. Robert Nakaya will likely step in and contribute in his first year. “Robert is a very creative player, but he plays simple and uses good skills and an understanding of the game,” Schroeder said of the freshman.

Jake Jones, who comes in as a freshman in 2009, has the potential to see playing time immediately. “Jake is a very strong player and we are very high on him. We will look for him to contribute a lot this year,” Schroeder said. Jones will likely see the majority of his playing time in the midfield, but he also has the ability to play in the back if needed.

Forward

Mike Bray, SNU’s leading goal scorer from last season, will return for his junior year. After moving around a lot last season, Bray will slide back into the forward position and will be looked to even more for goal scoring. Thierry Gakire, who was also out at the end of last year, will return for his final season in the Storm uniform and will look to bounce back and get things going again offensively.

Chris Chavez will also return for his final season and will provide depth up top for SNU. “Chris has the potential to be a very strong player and we will look for him to come in and give us valuable minutes up top this season,” Schroeder explained.

Another player that was injured for part of the season last year, Eric Ouedraogo, will return to the forward position and help provide a threat as a goal scorer. Ouedraogo suffered his injury early in the 2008 season, but finished the year on a good note. Coach Schroeder is hopeful that he will be able to carry over the momentum from last year.

Wrap-Up

SNU has become a power in the Sooner Athletic Conference during the past decade and will look to finish this decade on a high note. With a wealth of experience back from last year’s national tournament team, the Crimson Storm should yet again find themselves in the mix at the top of the SAC standings and yet again vying for a spot at nationals.

“We have a few holes to fill, but nothing that we can’t cover,” Schroeder said. “With the young guys coming back with some experience, we will just need a few key players in places this year and we should be in good shape. We’re looking forward to trying to get back to the national tournament again,” he concluded.

(BETHANY, OKLA.)---Oklahoma City University’s Stars are picked to win the 2009 Sooner Athletic Conference title, according to the Conference’s Coaches’ Preseason poll released Thursday.

The Stars received nine first-place votes and had a perfect poll score of 81. Coaches were not permitted to rank their own team. The Stars were 7-0-1 last season in the SAC and 20-3-1 overall, reaching the NAIA semifinals.

Southern Nazarene is ranked second in the poll with the remaining first-place vote and 70 points. SNU also reached the national tournament last season and ended the year with a 14-5-1 record.

The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is ranked third with 64 points, followed by Oklahoma Baptist at 60, Oklahoma Christian with 45, Rogers State with 44, John Brown at 33, Mid-America Christian at 22, St. Gregory’s with 21 and first-year Wayland Baptist with nine.


The 2009 SAC Men’s Soccer Preseason Coaches’ Poll
Pl. School (1st place votes) Points 2008 Record
1. Oklahoma City (9) 81 20-3-1
2. Southern Nazarene (1) 70 14-5-1
3. Science & Arts Oklahoma 64 13-3-2
4. Oklahoma Baptist 60 12-2-4
5. Oklahoma Christian 45 6-7-4
6. Rogers State 44 10-6-3
7. John Brown 33 7-9-2
8. Mid-America Christian 22 5-11-1
9. St. Gregory’s 21 5-10-1
10. Wayland Baptist 9 NA

(KANSAS CITY, MO.)---The Crimson Storm men’s soccer team is ranked 16th in the pre-season NAIA national poll released on Wednesday. SNU, coming off a 14-5-1 record and the second round of the NAIA National Tournament, will open up play on September 4th in Brownsville, Texas taking on St. Thomas of Texas at 5:00 p.m.

To view the complete NAIA rankings, click here…
http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/spec-rel/081809aac.html

(BETHANY, OKLA.)---The 2009 Southern Nazarene University men's soccer schedule has been released and is highlighted by eight home games.  SNU will open up the 2009 season on August 31st at the University of Mobile, Alabama at 3:00 p.m. 

SNU's home opener is set for September 22nd, as the Crimson Storm hosts Kansas Wesleyan at 7:00 p.m.

For the complete 2009 schedule, click here:

http://sports.snu.edu/resources/info/2009-Mens-Soccer-Schedule.pdf