Game Recap: Graceland 4, Mount Marty 1

Yankton, SD – Graceland University opened their season with a 4-1 victory over Mount Marty University at Crane Youngworth Stadium on August 16th. Despite a valiant effort by Mount Marty, Graceland's efficient attack and solid defense secured the win. Mount Marty is now 0-1 on the season while Graceland improves to 1-0. 

First Half:

Graceland wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Kendall Guzman Soto finding the back of the net in just the sixth minute, assisted by Adam Wiman and Samuel Steiner. The goal set the tone for Graceland's aggressive play, which continued as they dominated possession.

Midway through the first half, Graceland struck again. David Hopfer capitalized on a well-executed play with assists from Mario Salinas, putting Graceland up 2-0 at the 25:57 mark.

Mount Marty responded almost immediately, cutting the deficit in half just five seconds later. Oliver Danser scored off assists from James Terry, giving the Lancers hope as the teams headed into halftime with Graceland leading 2-1.

Second Half:

Graceland continued to apply pressure in the second half, and their persistence paid off. Lucas Porter extended the Yellowjackets' lead to 3-1 in the 62nd minute, thanks to an assist from Ashton Adrian.

Graceland's offense wasn't finished yet. In the 70th minute, Andrew Porter added the final goal of the match, assisted once again by Nevshemal and Salinas, sealing the 4-1 victory.

Key Stats:

• Graceland: 17 shots, 7 on target, 4 goals, 7 assists.
• Mount Marty: 8 shots, 3 on target, 1 goal, 2 assists.
• Goalkeepers: Dither Beltran of Graceland made 2 saves and conceded 1 goal, while Alessio Pirrello of Mount Marty made 3 saves but allowed 4 goals.

Game Notes:

• The match was marked by physical play, with 21 total fouls and two yellow cards issued.
• Graceland's depth and teamwork were on full display, as four different players scored and multiple players contributed assists.

Mount Marty will travel to Manhanttan, KS on August 22nd.