SAN ANTONIO -- Down two goals in the first half, the University of the Incarnate Word men's soccer team (3-6-2, 2-2-1 OVC) rallied to score four answered goals and defeat Southern Indiana (1-7- 4, 1-3 -1 OVC), 4-2, on Sunday afternoon at Benson Stadium. Diego Robles netted three goals on his way to his first career hat trick and led the Cardinals' comeback.
Southern Indiana struck first just eight minutes into the match to take an early lead. UIW created opportunities of its own but was unable to capitalize before the Eagles doubled their advantage in the 25th minute.
The Cardinals responded four minutes later when Reagan Gyedu found the back of the net on a rebound from Robles' initial shot, cutting the deficit to 2-1 heading into halftime.
Continuing to battle back from the early deficit, the Cardinals earned a penalty kick after Evan Kraenzel played a through ball to Diego Robles, who drew a foul in the box. For the second consecutive game, Robles converted from the spot for the equalizer.
In the 76th minute, a handball in the box awarded UIW another penalty kick. Robles stepped up once again, connecting on the opportunity, giving Incarnate Word its first lead of the match at 3-2. Ten minutes later, another penalty kick gave Robles the opportunity to complete his hat trick, which he converted to seal the 4-2 victory and establish a new career high in goals.
Robles led the way with nine shots, all on goal, while Gyedu and Knox Hicks recorded two shots apiece. As a whole, the Cardinals outshot Southern Indiana, 20-to-15.
The Cardinals hit the road to take on Eastern Illinois on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 12 p.m.
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