CHICAGO, Ill. — Chicago State men's soccer showed strong resolve and offensive energy on Sunday afternoon, scoring in the second half before ultimately falling 4–1 to Mercyhurst at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep.
After trailing early, the Cougars came out of halftime with renewed determination and found the back of the net in the 54th minute.
Arafath Ouro-Gnao continued his strong run of form, slotting home his second goal of the season off a well-placed assist from
Zephyn Brockert-Kress.
Chicago State generated
11 total shots, including
six on goal, as the Cougars applied steady offensive pressure throughout the match. Ouro-Gnao led the attack with four shots, while
Hilary Odhiambo and
Karma Bhagentsang each contributed key scoring chances.
Defensively, the Cougars worked hard to contain Mercyhurst's attack, with goalkeepers
Aiden Hollander and
Johan Rodriguez Morales combining for
four saves in the contest. The team also held a
4–2 advantage in corner kicks, creating several late scoring opportunities as they pushed for a comeback.
Head Coach
Norris Howze praised his team's resilience and energy in the second half.
"I'm proud of the way our guys responded after the break," Howze said. "They showed character, fought hard, and created good chances. We're continuing to grow as a team and that effort will carry us forward."
