In what can only be described as a match for the ages, Ecclesia College Men's Soccer triumphed over Hesston College in a heart-pounding 3-2 victory, capped by a last-minute stunner from none other than Julius Herzog—the undisputed star of the night.
The Royals came out of the gates flying, dominating the first 35 minutes with intensity, precision, and a hunger that left the visiting Hesston side scrambling for answers. It was a masterclass in tempo and control, with Ecclesia dictating the rhythm and showcasing their attacking prowess.
Early signs of brilliance came down the left flank, where Colin Sarpong was electric. The winger torched his marker time and time again, turning the touchline into his personal playground. His explosive pace and silky footwork eventually paid off when he slotted home the opening goal. His first of the season thanks to a perfectly-weighted assist from Herzog. The crowd erupted as Sarpong wheeled away in celebration, capping off a blistering team move that started deep in midfield.
Just minutes later, Julius Herzog added his name to the scoresheet with a cool finish inside the box. The forward's off-the-ball movement was surgical, slipping past defenders like shadows in the dark, and when the chance came, he made no mistake. Up 2-0, the Royals looked in cruise control.
Anchoring the engine room was Pedro Figueroa, who put in a tireless shift in midfield. Whether it was breaking up Hesston attacks, distributing clean passes, or leading the press, Figueroa was the quiet general at the heart of Ecclesia's early dominance. His work rate and composure allowed the attacking players the freedom to create, and he was instrumental in keeping Ecclesia's rhythm ticking.
But Hesston wasn't going down without a fight.
After withstanding the early onslaught, the Larks clawed their way back into the match, showing grit and resilience. A goal just before halftime shifted the momentum, and another midway through the second half brought the game level at 2-2. Suddenly, the match turned into a war of wills, with both teams chasing a late winner. Hesston pushed hard, riding their second-half surge with intensity, but Ecclesia refused to break.
And then came the moment.
With the clock ticking down and extra time looming, Julius Herzog stepped up.. again. The Royals surged forward in one final push, and with ice in his veins and fire in his boots, Herzog unleashed a thunderous strike from the top of the box that sailed past the Hesston keeper, off the bar, in, and a bounce out from the amount of pace that the ball had.
The referee looked at his linesman who had to make the final determination that yes, it was indeed a goal.
Teammates swarmed Herzog, who had not only secured the win but etched his name into Ecclesia lore with two goals and an assist in a performance that was nothing short of legendary. It was the kind of display that turns good players into greats, and greats into heroes.
The final whistle blew moments later, sealing a 3-2 victory that showcased Ecclesia's attacking firepower, mental toughness, and clutch finishing.
This was more than just a win. It was a statement.
With players like Sarpong burning down the wings, Figueroa commanding the midfield, and Herzog delivering moments of pure magic, the Royals have shown they're not just here to compete, they're here to conquer.
And if Tuesday was any indication, they're just getting started.
