Box Score MISHAWAKA, Ind. ---The Bethel Pilots (3-0-1) defeated the Saint Xavier University Cougars (1-2-1) 3-2 on Wednesday evening at Morey Field.
The Bethel victory over Saint Xavier is long-awaited, with the Pilots' last win over the Cougars on August 30th of 2022. The Pilots previously lost the 2023 and 2024 matches 1-0 and 2-1.
Despite a 2-0 Cougar lead at the half, the Bethel Pilots first showcased their offensive consistency when
Karly Harkness scored in the 61st minute of the match.
Hannah Thomas picked up the assist.
Leena Thomas tied the score 2-2 in the 75th minute of the evening with her own goal, unassisted.
In the last three minutes of the battle,
Karly Harkness once again came in clutch for the Pilots, sending an asisst to
Aubrey Vervynckt, who scored the game winning goal (3-2).
Leena Thomas shared, "I'm super proud of the way that we fought tonight! Everyone stepped up and pushed hard until the end. Once we got the first goal, I knew we would be able to pull out the win."
Head Coach Jason Freeman wrote, "Credit to SXU for coming fast out of the gates tonight. They have a good group with very talented players, and we were in a tough spot by halftime. It usually feels good to get a win, but watching this group overcome some adversity early in the season is much more rewarding than the result itself. I am proud of the way the players kept believing in each other and encouraging one another to the end. There was a better level of grit and determination for the last 45 minutes that we need to carry with consistency into the next few challenging matchups."
The Bethel Pilots will next compete against the Siena Heights University Saints (1-3) this Saturday, Sept. 6th at 1:00 PM on the road.
For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, check out bupilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X by searching @bupilots or #TheRightWayToPlay.
