Men's soccer survives scare, comes back to beat Westminster

INDIANOLA, Iowa – A pair of second-half goals from Anthony Ashbridge and Collin Hemann helped the Simpson men's soccer team to a 2-1 win over Westminster (Mo.) on Tuesday afternoon.

The Storm (8-3) went more than 65 minutes without scoring before Ashbridge and Hemann struck in a span of 3:18 for the team's fourth straight win.

Despite the positive result, the team didn't perform as well as it had in the previous three wins.

"Today's game should serve as a reminder that you can't just show up and expect results," head coach Rick Isaacson said. "You have to bring your 'A' game every time you take the field."

Following a scoreless first half, the Blue Jays (2-6) produced some dangerous opportunities but failed to capitalize. The game's first goal didn't come until the 65^th minute, when a Westminster throw-in resulted in an own goal after clanging off the post and deflecting off goalkeeper Zach McEntee before crossing the goal line.

After coming up empty on a handful of opportunities in the first half, Simpson's first goal was a fortunate one. Ashbridge fired a cross from 35 yards out on the left wing that bent on frame for a highlight-reel goal in the 66^th minute.

"It was a sloppy game," Isaacson said. "I feel as though both sides were discontent with the way they played, but we are happy we got the result."

There was nothing unintentional about the game-winner, though. Spencer Cook was rewarded for his run down the right side when he played a cross to Hemann who finished from four yards out, giving Simpson a 2-1 lead in the 69^th minute.

Reigning Iowa Conference Defensive Player of the Week, McEntee made seven saves in the win.

Notes

Simpson opens conference play Saturday when it hosts Wartburg at 3 p.m. … the Knights (5-2-1) host Wisconsin-Platteville on Wednesday.