Graceland Men’s Soccer Holds Top-5 Missouri Valley to a 1-1 Draw, Awaits Postseason Fate

Lamoni, IA – Graceland University's men's soccer team displayed grit and determination on Senior Day, battling nationally ranked and undefeated Missouri Valley College to a 1-1 draw. The Yellowjackets held the Vikings scoreless through most of the match, ultimately surrendering an equalizer in the final minutes, which ended the game in a hard-fought tie.

Graceland took the lead in the 58th minute, thanks to a well-executed counterattack. Midfielder Stefano Mazzariol connected with forward Tyler Dailey, who calmly slotted the ball past the Missouri Valley keeper, giving the Yellowjackets a 1-0 advantage. This goal sparked Graceland's confidence and intensified their defensive efforts to preserve the lead.

Head Coach Bryan Courtney praised his team's performance in the face of tough competition. "This was our best performance of the season. I am super proud of the boys for the effort tonight. Our defensive intensity was very good, and we created several dangerous opportunities with our counterattack. It was heartbreaking to give up a goal so late in the game, but they are undefeated in conference for a reason. It's nearly impossible to keep them in check for a full 90 minutes, and tonight we were only able to do it for 86."

Graceland's defense was a focal point throughout the match. Led by keeper Miguel Roces, who tallied two crucial saves, the Yellowjackets limited Missouri Valley to just three shots on target despite 11 total shots. Roces and his defensive line held firm, repelling numerous attacks from the Viking forwards and successfully clearing out five corner kicks. The Yellowjackets' defensive shape and cohesion frustrated Missouri Valley's offense, forcing them to take low-percentage shots from distance.

Missouri Valley's relentless attack ultimately paid off late in the game, when forward Sam Green netted the equalizer in the 89th minute. The Vikings capitalized on a well-placed ball near the box, which Green drove past Roces. Despite the late goal, Graceland continued to fight for possession in the remaining moments of the match, underscoring their resilience and commitment.

Graceland's offense, though outshot 11-6, made efficient use of their scoring chances. Dailey's goal marked one of six shots on goal for the Yellowjackets, a testament to their disciplined approach in setting up high-quality opportunities. In addition to Dailey's successful strike, Kendall Guzman Soto and Lucas Porter each tested Missouri Valley's keeper, keeping the pressure on with timely counterattacks.

Reflecting on the game, Coach Courtney emphasized the potential of his squad. "We earned a tie against a nationally ranked top-5 team and came away feeling disappointed, which I think is a testament to how good we can be with just a touch more consistency. We had our destiny in our own hands, and now we have to wait and see how the results play out on Wednesday night to see if we are in the playoffs."

The Graceland men's soccer team will now play a wait-and-see game to find out if and when they qualify for the HAAC postseason tournament.

For more information on Graceland men's soccer and all of Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.