Despite falling behind early, the Heidelberg University men’s soccer team battled back and defeated host Muskingum University 2-1 in double-overtime. With the win, Heidelberg improved to 9-6-1, 4-2-1 in the OAC.
Hamid Shariff (Columbus/Centennial) scored an unassisted goal with less than four minutes left to play in the second overtime to give Heidelberg the win.
Muskingum’s Brett Hanna scored in the 17th minute to give the Fighting Muskies a 1-0 lead.
Later that half, Chris Koczak (Springboro) scored an equalizer off an assist from Cole Tonti (Columbus/St. Francis DeSales). The goal, which came in the 43rd minute, was Koczak’s seventh on the season.
Both teams applied pressure in a scoreless second half, as Heidelberg recorded 10 shots to Muskingum’s eight.
The teams remained tied through the first overtime period, even though Heidelberg outshot Muskingum 4-0.
Shariff’s golden goal was his third goal on the season.
Matthew Stevens (South Lyon, MI) made one save to earn his ninth win of the season.
With the victory, Heidelberg clinched a spot in the conference tournament.
The Student Princes will return to action a John Carroll University on Wednesday. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.