Cougars Score Late to Tie Wildcats in Home Opener

Columbia, Mo. – The No. 14-ranked Columbia College men’s soccer team kicked off their home opener against Culver-Stockton College (Mo.) this evening, ending in a draw, 2-2.
 
The Cougars move to 1-0-1 on the season, while the Wildcats settle at 1-0-3, making it the first-ever tie between the two programs in series history.
 
Wil Essner got things going for Columbia in the 39th minute, finding the back of the net, assisted by Drew Schlimme, putting the Cougars on top, 1-0.
 
The Wildcats responded just two minutes later with a goal of their own, scored by Riccardo Fornasari. 
 
Columbia took 11 shots in the opening half, compared to five attempts from Culver-Stockton. Heading into the locker room, it was tied at one apiece.
 
The Wildcats saw more action taking their only lead of the contest with a goal from Ruben Reinertsen, assisted by Austin Jones, 2-1.
 
The Cougars responded as Luke Sowerby produced a goal of his own in the 84th minute, 2-2.
 
Columbia outshot Culver-Stockton 22-9, while also taking an 11-7 advantage in corner kick action. Caden Hof also added three saves in the draw.
 
The Cougars are back in action Sunday, September 3 at NCAA Division II Truman State (Mo.). Kickoff is set for 12:00 p.m.