Evansville, IN-- Oakland City University men's soccer erased a halftime deficit and stormed back with two second-half goals to secure a 2–1 comeback win over Hannibal-LaGrange on Tuesday afternoon at the Goebel Complex.
Hannibal-LaGrange struck first in the 18th minute when forward Henry Munoz found the back of the net, putting the Trojans up 1–0. Despite the early setback, Oakland City controlled much of the possession in the opening half, generating six shots and six corner kicks, but the Oaks couldn't break through before halftime.
The momentum shifted after the break. In the 59th minute, Ross O'Brien delivered the equalizer for Oakland City, finishing a setup from Samuel Pilgrim to level the match at 1–1. The Oaks kept the pressure on, and with just under 14 minutes remaining, Pharrell Lorenzo netted the go-ahead goal in the 77th minute, assisted by Alfie Rouse, giving Oakland City a 2–1 advantage.
Hannibal-LaGrange pressed for a late equalizer, recording six second-half shots, but goalkeeper Nicholas Boes stood tall for the Oaks, tallying three saves on the afternoon. Oakland City's back line held firm through the final whistle, sealing the win.
Oakland City (1–3–0) finished with a 12–8 edge in shots and capitalized on key second-half opportunities. Hannibal-LaGrange (1–2–1) showed grit but was hampered by 19 fouls and three yellow cards.
The Oaks return to action later this week looking to build on their first victory of the season, while Hannibal-LaGrange will regroup as it continues its early-season slate.
