Saint Leo University Athletics issued the following announcement on Sept. 5.
Josef Hefele netted his first collegiate career goal in the 58th when he converted a penalty kick. His powerful strike would prove enough to record a 1-1 double-overtime draw with the visiting No. 18 West Florida Argonauts (1-0-1). Saint Leo (0-1-1) battled the nationally ranked opponent by firing 15 shots, four on target, and three forcing a save.
The first 40 minutes of action yielded multiple composed segments of possession for both the Green and Gold and the Blue and White. The Argonauts made their way onto the scoreboard first in the 43rd minute off the boot of Kainan Santas, assisted by Jack Patching.
The Lions broke out an offensive surge in the second half, registering five shots compared to the Argonauts' one attempt. The Green and Gold broke into the left side of the box, drove the ball, and drew a foul. The referee made the signal and Hefele wasted no time getting ready to take the penalty kick. The whistle blew and the Munich, Germany product hit a rocket to the back right corner of West Florida's net.
Neither bench was able to claim the win after 90 minutes, nor the following first 10 minute overtime period. Tension and excitement filled the hot sunny day as the double-overtime began. Goalkeeper, Jackson Eckley from Tampa, Florida made a terrific save in the 108th minute. Eckley bent to the bottom right corner of the net to stop Kaina's shot, the Argonauts' previous goal scorer. Jackson's work preserved the equalizer and made the draw with No. 18 West Florida final.
Saint Leo will be tested on the road for the first time in 2021 on Friday, Sept. 10 at Montevallo, starting at 8 p.m. (ET). The Lions will continue their road trip to meet with West Alabama on Sunday, Sept. 12 at 2 p.m. (ET).
Original source can be found here.
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