SPRINGFIELD — There’s something special brewing around No. 12 Missouri State men’s soccer.
The Bears had their toughest challenge yet when they tied No. 16 Kansas City 3-3 on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
The non-conference clash was an all-out battle between two of the best teams in the nation and in the state.
“Those were two of the top 10 teams in the country,” Missouri State coach Michael Seabolt said. “Both teams have proven it day in and day out. Obviously, we thought we could’ve won the match. But I’m sure they feel the same.”
Missouri State (5-0-1) have steadily climbed the top 25 rankings through the first month of competition. The Bears had their team culture and skills challenged
against a very strong Roos (4-1-2) side.
The Bears jumped ahead 1-0 in the opening 10 minutes before Kansas City equalized seconds before halftime. Kansas City added another goal to take a 2-1 lead inside the opening few minutes of the second half, but Missouri State never wavered.
The team’s togetherness was on full display. They worked together, pressed efficiently, passed quickly, and were courageous going forward. Joao Boavida's equalizer, with a great goal from Adrian Esteban’s pinpoint cross from the left, won it.
With 12 minutes to go, Diego Real put Missouri State ahead 3-2 in the 79th minute. He weaved his way around multiple Kansas City defenders, providing many step-overs before slotting the goal.
“Joao just set it there, and I was in full stride,” Real said. “I just kept driving, kept driving, and nobody was really tackling me. I waited until I had a clean shot and then I took it. Thankfully, it went in.”
Kansas City spoiled Missouri State’s winning start by equalizing in the final three minutes.
Missouri State's most impressive attribute was battling back from a deficit. The Bears were never flustered and did not seem to press the issue when under duress.
Missouri State has scored late goals in their previous two wins over UC Irvine and FIU. Each time, the team celebrates together. It’s important for them to do so to build team camaraderie. When Real netted the go-ahead goal, the Bears flooded the corner flag in jubilation.
“It’s always very special,” Real said. “We have a great group, and I love all of the staff. When we score a goal, we always like to come to the corner and celebrate as a team.”
Missouri State jumps back into American Conference play on Sunday, Sept. 20. The Bears will go on the road to Temple (0-5-2) at 1 p.m.
Springfield Public Schools clash follows Missouri State draw
It’s always a special evening when high school players can emulate high-level college play. After Missouri State’s draw, Springfield Central and Hillcrest took to Betty and Bobby Allison South Stadium.
Central defeated Hillcrest 4-1 on Springfield Public Schools night. This was the Bulldogs’ fourth straight win, and they now hold a 7-1 record. Owen Smith opened the scoring for the Bulldogs via a penalty. A few minutes later, Malachi Wright finished a fine goal to double Central’s lead.
Representing Springfield has always been important to Seabolt. To see the next generation of players take to Missouri State’s field was incredible to see.
“What a great night for Springfield to showcase two of the best high school teams, and it’s what it’s all about,” Seabolt said. “Let this be a platform for these young men to develop and chase their dreams.”
Liam Keating covers high school sports and Missouri State athletics for The Springfield News-Leader. Send stats or information to him at Lkeating@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: No. 12 Missouri State shows togetherness in clash against No. 16 Kansas City
