Warriors beat Hesston on a last minute shot from Maphatseo

Sterling College edged Hesston College 3-2 on Thursday in a non-conference matchup. Sterling took an early lead with two first-half goals, and despite a late push from Hesston, maintained their advantage. The decisive goal came in the second half, sealing the win for Sterling. Both goalkeepers were active, with Sterling's keeper making eight saves and Hesston's stopping 13 shots.

The first half commenced with Sterling taking an early lead with Chimela Orji scoring in the 14th minute, assisted by Michael Kyalo. Just under a minute later, Jose Pacheco doubled the advantage with help from Darragh Synnott, making it 2-0. Hesston responded in the 21st minute with a goal from Benjamin Duguid, but Sterling's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Cassidy Kelly, managed to maintain the lead, despite a flurry of shots from both teams, ending the half at 2-1 in favor of Sterling.

The second half began with Sterling aggressively pursuing the lead, as Kyalo's initial shot was saved by Ethan Connelly in the 48th minute. Despite a flurry of attempts, including efforts from Pacheco and Jonathan Torres, the match remained tied at 2-2 after Hesston's Mateo Gonzalez equalized in the 55th minute. In the final moments, Sterling's persistence paid off when O-Rephemetse Maphatseo scored the decisive goal in the 89th minute from midfield, securing a 3-2 victory with his first goal of the season.

Orji scored one goal on four shots, with two on target, contributing significantly to Sterling's offensive efforts. Maphats added the game-winning goal and recorded two shots, both on goal, showcasing precision in key moments. Pacheco found the back of the net once and led the team in shots with seven, four of which were on target. Kelly made eight saves over 90 minutes, maintaining a strong presence in goal for Sterling.

Up next, the Warriors (1-1-1) will take on Barclay College in Sterling on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 2 p.m.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.