Panthers Defeat Bulldogs in National Tournament, Finish Season With a Win

Huntsville, AL - In a game that felt eerily similar to the Panthers' first match, the gutsy soccer team didn't let the past affect the present. The Panthers came from behind to beat the Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs 2-1 to live another day in the NJCAA National Tournament. 

The Bulldogs notched the first goal of the match in the 10th minute on a ball that hit the right post and bounced in behind keeper Lizandro Moradel. Moradel went on to save the next 6 shots to keep the Bulldogs at bay. The Panthers were unable to capitalize on six shots in the first half, many of which were great opportunities that just wouldn't go the way of the lads. Both teams stalled out throughout the rest of the first half and the majority of the second half until a miraculous goal by Mohamed Sadiki in the 76th minute (video). Sadiki was passed the ball behind midfield and with a great awareness of the field, noticed MGCSS's goalkeeper was far outside of the box. Mo used his incredibly strong leg to kick the ball 60 yards into the back of the net to tie the match up at 1-1.

The Panthers never quit attacking, knowing they needed to capitalize on the opportunity in front of them. Ten minutes later, in the 86th minute, Alejandro Mina headed in his 20th goal of the season to give them the 2-1 lead over Gulf Coast. The final four minutes of the match were intensely fought, with Gulf Coast doing their best to get back in the match to tie it up. Thanks to tremendous defense by the Panthers, The Bulldogs were not able to mount a comeback and the Panthers pulled off the victory 2-1 to give them their first-ever victory in the NJCAA National Tournament. 

The fate of the Panthers' season lies in the hands of Mississippi Gulf Coast as they take on Pima to close out pool play. With a Pima victory, the Aztecs would advance and send the Bulldogs and Panthers home. With a Gulf Coast victory, each team would be 1-1 in pool play and force tiebreaker scenarios. Stay up to date on what lies in store for the Panthers here and on social media @PSCCPanthers. 

Update: Pima defeated Mississipppi Gulf Coast in overtime to advance to the semifinals, thus eliminating the Panthers from the tournament. Congratulations on a historic season, Panthers!