MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Double overtime was needed to determine a winner Thursday night in the SSAC Championship semifinals, as William Carey secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over UT Southern.
The Crusaders controlled much of the first half, but both defenses delivered standout performances. William Carey's back line was exceptional, holding the Firehawks to just one shot in the opening 45 minutes and preventing a single attempt from reaching the target. UT Southern's defense was equally effective, limiting the Crusaders to four total shots, including only two on goal, as the teams headed into halftime scoreless.
The second half closely resembled the first, with neither side able to break through defensively. Carey increased its offensive pressure and generated eight shots during the period, but only two tested the Firehawks' goalkeeper. Meanwhile, the Crusader defense continued to frustrate UT Southern, holding the Firehawks to the same offensive output as in the opening half and forcing overtime with the match still deadlocked at 0-0.
UT Southern's lone scoring opportunity in the first overtime period came on a chance that was turned away by William Carey goalkeeper
Pablo Diez, whose save preserved the shutout and sent the match into a second overtime session.
As the second overtime unfolded, both defenses continued to stand firm and quality scoring opportunities remained scarce. With just over two minutes remaining, however, the Crusaders finally found the breakthrough they were searching for.
Fabian Arroyo delivered a corner kick to the back post, where
Souleymane Balde brought the ball under control before calmly slotting his shot past the outstretched arms of the UT Southern goalkeeper. The golden goal sealed a thrilling 1-0 victory and punched William Carey's ticket to the conference championship match.
With the win, the Crusaders advance to the SSAC Championship final on Saturday, Nov. 12, where they will face Faulkner University. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex.
