FHSU Athletics
HAYS, Kan. – Rogers State edged Fort Hays State 1-0 in a hard-fought match Thursday night at FHSU Soccer Stadium. In a game defined by defensive efforts and physical play, the Hillcats capitalized on an offensive opportunity in the second half to pick up a road win. The Hillcats moved to 3-4-2 overall and maintained a perfect 3-0 record in GAC play. The No. 21 ranked Tigers moved to 3-3-1 overall and 0-2 in conference action.
Each team mustered just one shot on goal in the first half, and both goalkeepers were up to the challenge making saves. The Hillcats had a slight 4-3 advantage in the overall shot count. The Tigers earned five corner kicks during the opening period, but could not convert any opportunities. The best chance for the Tigers occurred within the first 10 minutes of the match when a rebound opportunity off the saved shot went wide of the target.
Fort Hays State was aggressive in the second half, firing off nine shots compared to two for the Hillcats. However, Rogers State made one of those two opportunities count on the scoreboard in the 61st minute. Erik Hjertsson capitalized on a misplayed clearance by the Tigers' defense, slotting the ball into the back of the net inside the box to give the Hillcats a 1-0 advantage.
Fort Hays State responded with heavy offensive pressure, especially in the final 10 minutes of the match looking for the equalizer, but never found the back of the net. The Tigers doubled up the Hillcats in shot count by the end of the match (12-6), but both teams only had two shots on target all night.