WICHITA, Kan. – Continuing its unbeaten streak to begin the season, the John Brown University men's soccer team scored early and held on for a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Friends (Kan.) on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 7) at Adair-Austin Stadium.
The match kicked off with a flurry of early action, setting the tone for a physically demanding contest. John Brown found the back of the net just nine minutes into the game when freshman Marcos Miranda capitalized on a well-executed build-up play. Senior Erick Diaz began the play from the right flank by crossing in a dangerous flick that senior Jose Almanza precisely redirected to Miranda in the box. Miranda calmly slotted the ball past Friends' goalkeeper, Arturo Pombo-Palomer, recording his first collegiate goal and giving the Golden Eagles an early 1-0 advantage.
However, Friends University quickly responded, equalizing in the 22nd minute through forward Caique Pereira. The Brazilian forward showcased his speed and used a Jose Quiel pass upfield to break in alone on senior Kyle Hix, leveling the match at 1-1. Despite the early goals, both teams' defenses stiffened as the first half progressed, limiting each other to few clear-cut opportunities.
Hix played a crucial role in keeping the match level, registering four saves throughout the 90 minutes - particularly in the 14th and 68th minutes, when he denied Friends' forward Eddy Rachedi from close range. His commanding presence in the penalty area ensured that John Brown remained resilient in the face of increasing pressure from the Falcons.
The second half unfolded as a defensive stalemate, with neither side able to break through despite a few sporadic chances. John Brown struggled to create consistent attacking momentum in the final third, managing only two shots in the second period compared to Friends' six. Both sides committed multiple fouls, contributing to a stop-start rhythm that disrupted the attacking flow. John Brown ended the match with nine fouls, while Friends tallied ten.
The contest grew increasingly physical as the clock ticked down, with yellow cards issued in the final 10 minutes of action. Despite the rising tensions, both teams maintained their composure to see out the remainder of the match without further goals.
John Brown finished the match with seven shots, three of which were on target, while Friends edged them with 11 shots and five on goal.
The Golden Eagles will return to the pitch on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 14) after a week's hiatus, when they host Williams Baptist (Ark.) at Alumni Field. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. as John Brown aims to extend their unbeaten streak live on the SAC Sports Network.
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