Gardner-Webb Defeats Oregon State in NCAA Tournament Opener
CORVALLIS, Ore. – In a standout performance, the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs secured a thrilling 1-0 victory over Oregon State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday evening. Senior midfielder Caio Hughes emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 72nd minute, leading his team to advance to the next round.
Hughes, who topped Gardner-Webb with four shots during the match, was pivotal in both offensive and defensive plays. The Runnin’ Bulldogs made an aggressive start, firing off multiple shots in the opening minutes, but were initially unable to break through Oregon State’s defense. Hughes came close on two occasions in the first half, but both of his attempts were saved by the Beavers’ keeper.
Oregon State had its chances as well, notably a critical opportunity in the first half when Runnin’ Bulldogs’ junior goalkeeper Alan Horrocks made a crucial save on a shot from Sergi Solans, keeping the match scoreless at halftime.
The latter half saw both defenses exerting their strength, but Hughes finally changed the game’s complexion in the 72nd minute. Unmarked in the penalty area, he received assists from Tiago Campos and Lucas Mauro before scoring his third goal of the season. Following the goal, Gardner-Webb’s defense remained impenetrable, preventing Oregon State from registering any additional shots during the final 18 minutes of regulation.
With this victory, Gardner-Webb advances to face the University of Denver on Saturday, November 23, where they will compete for a spot in the tournament’s next round. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3 PM in Denver, Colorado, as the Runnin’ Bulldogs aim to continue their successful postseason run.
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