Mustangs Strike Late to Take Down Graceland

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Mount Mercy overcame an early deficit and used two second-half goals to earn a 2-1 victory over Graceland on Wednesday at Hadzic Field.

The Mustangs (4-2-1, 1-1-0 Heart) fell behind in the 11th minute when Kaden Edwards capitalized on a loose ball and scored unassisted for Graceland (1-3-1, 0-1-0). Mount Mercy made an early goalkeeper change following the goal due to injury, with Zach Biggs replacing starter Alejandro Cuende. Biggs anchored the back line the rest of the way, recording five saves and securing his first win of the season.

After a scoreless remainder of the first half, Mount Mercy drew level in the 59th minute. Forward Chris Difficile converted from the penalty spot to tie the match. The Mustangs maintained pressure through set pieces and midfield play, with Cyprien Rocard and Tomas Parra Reyna generating key opportunities in the attacking third.

The decisive moment came in the 89th minute. Rocard connected with forward Pablo Ortega Herreros, who slotted home the match-winner for his ninth goal of the season. Ortega Herreros, who also received a first-half yellow card, made the most of his late opportunity as Mount Mercy sealed three points in conference play.

Mount Mercy was efficient in the final third, placing all five of its shots on target. Rocard tallied two shots on goal in addition to his assist, while Difficile and Ortega Herreros each converted their lone attempts. The Mustangs also managed four corner kicks and absorbed 15 Graceland fouls in a physical contest that featured seven yellow cards.

Biggs' steady performance in net proved crucial, as Graceland outshot Mount Mercy 10-5. The Mustang defense, led by Alessandro Redolfi and Erik Richier, held firm under pressure during the closing minutes before Ortega Herreros' strike secured the comeback.

The Mustangs will look to secure three more points in conference play, taking on William Woods at Hadzic Field on Saturday, with kickoff slated for 3:30 p.m.