For the first time in quite a while, it seemed like the Mississinewa Indians had everything going their way.
With a one-goal lead late, the Indians had a chance to win just their second game of the season.
Unfortunately, it was not meant to be, as the Wapahani Raiders were awarded a free kick off of a questionable call which they ultimately converted in the finals seconds.
Head Coach Brandon Forshey, who questioned the penalty, was given a red card, and the game ended in a disappointing 2-2 draw.
The Indians put forth their best effort of the year, but in a season that has just been mired with injuries and heartbreak, victory eluded them once more on Tuesday.
“I would say we had possession for about 70 percent of the game, which is fantastic for a team that has been struggling to put things together,” Forshey said. “They passed beautifully, they [sent the ball perfectly,] and we were able to get 25 shots off, 18 [of which] were on goal.”
Freshmen Colin Yoder and Andre Sallade scored the goals for the Indians in the tie.
Forshey will be suspended for the Indians’ upcoming game on Satursday, but he is able to conduct practices. Andrea Wilson, who coaches the Mississinewa girls soccer team, will coach both teams on Saturday.
Even though Forshey won’t be roaming the sidelines on Saturday, he already has a gameplan, and hopes that Wilson will be able to carry it out.
“We know who we are facing – we are facing a possession based team that, [after they gain an early lead,] they hold the ball the rest of the game,” Forshey said. “We are focusing on how to counter [that,] and we will be ready for Saturday.”
