Plagens scores game-winner in 3-2 double overtime win at Hope

HOLLAND, Mich. -- Freshman Connor Plagens (South Lyon) scored the game-winning goal in the fourth minute of the second overtime, as the Olivet College men's soccer team defeated Hope College, 3-2, in dramatic fashion tonight at the Van Andel Soccer Stadium in Holland.

Hope took a 1-0 lead with a goal at the 8:18 mark of the first half. The score stayed that way until the 56th minute when freshman Fred Smyser (Grand Rapids/Forest Hills Eastern) knocked in a free kick from about 25 yards out. The Dutchmen grabbed a 2-1 lead with a goal in the 75th minute.

Olivet tied the game at 2-2 when freshman Adam Wright (Wixom/Walled Lake Western) scored with 23 seconds left in regulation. Sophomore Carlos Alejos (East Kentwood) and senior Ethan Felsing (Mason) each earned an assist. In overtime, Hope had a great chance to win the game off a header. The Comets countered with an attack where Plagens was open at the top of the box. Smyser sent a cross to Plagens, who sent a low shot to the back of the net.

"Wow, what a game," said Olivet Head Coach Chad Wiseman. "We started seven freshmen against a team who plays very well on its home field. Many of them stepped up and played exceptional, and that's evident with all three goals coming from first-year players. Going down twice by a goal, we also showed a lot of fight to get back into the game."

The Comets finished the game with 17 shots, including five for sophomore Matt Garza (Saline) and four for Smyser. Felsing played the entire game in goal and collected four saves.

Olivet begins the second half of its MIAA schedule Saturday when they host Kalamazoo College at 2:30 p.m. With the today's win, the Comets move into a tie with Adrian and Trine for third-place in the league standings with 13 points. Kalamazoo is first with 15 points, followed by Calvin with 14.