Vazquez’s Overtime Goal Lifts Mustangs In The SMU Classic

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DALLAS (SMU) – The SMU men’s soccer team defeated Oakland, 1-0, in overtime on day one of the SMU Classic Presented by Jason’s Deli Friday night at Westcott Field. Freshman Leobardo Vazquez netted the game-winner for the Mustangs. With the win, SMU moves to 3-2-1 on the season.

The game was close, with the teams trading several scoring opportunities. Reigning Conference USA Offensive Player of the Week Tyler Engel had a chance for the Mustangs early when he beat the Oakland goalie in the 29th minute and sent the ball headed for the far post before an Oakland defender sprinted to make a team save on the line, keeping the game tied 0-0.

Oakland’s best look on goal came in the 80th minute when Johnny Dreshaj was taken down in the box and awarded a penalty kick. Dreshaj stepped up to the mark and sent the ball right, but SMU’s Jaime Ibarra made a diving save to keep the game scoreless and send the game to extra time.

In the 95th minute, Vazquez received a feed from sophomore Andrew Morales, shook a defender and sent a 17-yard shot up over the goalie and in for the SMU win. The goal was Vazquez’s second of the season and first career game-clincher.

Ibarra made three saves on the night, earning his first clean sheet of the season.

The Mustangs close out play in the SMU Classic Presented by Jason’s Deli when they take on UC Davis on Sunday at Westcott Field at 2:30 p.m. Tulsa and Oakland will play a noon. UC Davis defeated Tulsa, 2-1, Friday night to open the SMU Classic.