HAYS, Kan. -- Northeastern State's men's soccer season came to a close Saturday with a 2-1 loss to Fort Hays State in the GAC/MIAA Championship game at FHSU Soccer Stadium.
The championship appearance marked the third in program history for the RiverHawks, who finished the season with an 8-10-1 record. The season's conclusion also marked the end of the collegiate careers of 13 NSU student-athletes set to graduate.
Fort Hays State took a 1-0 lead in the 21st minute when JJ Espinosa scored off an assist from Juan Linares. The Tigers carried that advantage into halftime.
The RiverHawks looked to even the score throughout the second half, but Fort Hays State added to its lead in the 73rd minute on a goal by Davide Francesca.
Northeastern State answered in the 83rd minute.
Martin Martinez found the back of the net off an assist from
Harry Tremblez, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and giving the RiverHawks a chance to rally in the closing minutes.
NSU continued to press for an equalizer, but the Tigers held on to secure the championship. The RiverHawks finished with 10 shots, including two on goal, while Fort Hays State recorded 14 shots and eight shots on goal.
Victor Jaunay made six saves in goal for Northeastern State. Martinez's goal was his second of the season, while Tremblez recorded his first assist.
