In a thrilling and hard-fought match, the MIU men’s soccer team came away with a 3-3 tie against an experienced William Penn University squad in its final home game of the season at the MIU Unified Field.

Early in the first half, the Pioneers took the lead when Jesse Cano (No. 5, California) scored with an assist from Angel Delgado (No. 16, Arizona). William Penn responded midway through the half with a goal to tie the game and then added another before halftime, taking a 2-1 lead into the break.

In the second half, Nicholas Webster (No. 9, England) brought the crowd to their feet with a spectacular free kick from 30 yards out, leveling the score at 2-2.

Midway through the half, MIU goalkeeper Juan Jose (No. 1, Spain) made a crucial save on a William Penn penalty kick to keep the game tied.

William Penn later regained the lead, making it 3-2, but the Pioneers continued to fight back. After earning a penalty, Nixon Valencia (No. 20, Ecuador) converted to equalize once again.

In the closing moments, William Penn was awarded another penalty, but Juan Jose again came up big for the Pioneers with his second penalty save of the match, preserving the 3-3 draw.

“The team fought extremely well,” said MIU Coach Caio Pereira. “I was very proud of how the team overcame the adversities of having a man down, and I also have to praise Juan Jose’s performance. It was remarkable how he was able to keep us in the game in several occasions and came in clutch with two penalty kick saves to secure our undefeated season at our home field.”

The team travels for a three-day road trip to face Northwestern College (October 9), Morningside University (October 10), and Briar Cliff University (October 11).