Kansas City, Mo. - November 2nd
Bethel College Men's Soccer staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Avila University 4-3 in a high-stakes away game. The Threshers were relentless, turning a two-goal deficit into a thrilling victory with four unanswered goals in the final 30 minutes of play.

First Half

The opening half saw both teams battling for control, with Avila taking an early lead in the 15th minute. Bethel responded with offensive pressure, generating multiple scoring opportunities. Aleksa Oborina and Gabriel Okita led the Threshers' attack, each pushing for the equalizer with powerful shots on goal Despite Avila's aggressive play, the Threshers entered the break down just 1-0, knowing they were still within striking distance.

Second Half

The second half began with Avila quickly extending their lead to 3-0, seemingly in control. However, Bethel refused to back down, beginning their incredible comeback in the 61st minute when Gabriel Okita, in a brilliant solo effort, navigated through Avila's defense and scored Bethel's first goal of the game. 

In the 80th minute, Oborina added a second goal for Bethel, assisted by Okita. This relentless pressure soon forced Avila into a critical mistake in the 86th minute, resulting in a penalty for Bethel. Filip Maksimovic stepped up confidently, converting the penalty to tie the game 3-3. Just moments later, Maksimovic struck again in the 88th minute, capitalizing on a quick break to give Bethel the lead for the first time. The Threshers' defense held firm in the closing minutes, securing an exhilarating 4-3 comeback victory.

Leaders

• Goals: Filip Maksimovic led the scoring with two goals, including the game-winning strike in the 88th minute.
• Assists: Gabriel Okita contributed an assist in addition to his crucial first goal that sparked Bethel's rally.
• Defense: Kazimir Kromwijk anchored Bethel's defense with four key saves, keeping the Threshers in the game when Avila was pressing.

Conference Tournament

With this win, Bethel has now secured a home match in the KCAC tournament which is set to start on Wednesday night.