The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s soccer teams split their
series with Northwest Mississippi Community College Tuesday, with the women falling
to the No. 3 Rangers, 13-0, and the men picking up a 3-2 victory.
In the opener, the Nighthawk women (0-6) fell behind early and could not keep up,
allowing six goals in the first half. In the second half, the Nighthawks’ defensive
woes continued, allowing seven additional goals while struggling to break into Rangers
territory, offensively. Freshman goalkeeper Deitie Hale (Hot Springs) amassed four
saves, while sophomore goalkeeper Andreya Reyna (Mexia, Texas) added six saves in
defeat.
After falling behind to an early goal in the first 10 minutes, the Nighthawk men (5-0-2)
took command of its match in the first half, with a team-leading third goal of the season from freshman
winger Paulo Ndenzako (Memphis, Tennessee), followed by a go-ahead goal from sophomore
midfielder Zakariya Abdi (Houston, Texas) midway through the period. Leading, 2-1,
at halftime, the Nighthawks struck again in the second half on an unassisted goal
from sophomore left back Henry Gomez (Springdale). With less than 20 minutes remaining,
Northwest Mississippi struck again, bringing the Rangers within one goal and turning
on the pressure, defensively. Despite a late push over the final moments, however,
NPC’s defense held strong, preserving NPC’s undefeated start to the season.
NPC men’s soccer faces John Brown University in Siloam Springs Friday, September 15
at 4 p.m. The Nighthawk men and women open NJCAA Region 2 play Saturday, September
23 against University of Arkansas-Cossatot with the women beginning at 3 p.m., followed
by men’s action at 5 p.m.
For more information on schedules, rosters and more, visit Nighthawk Athletics online. Fans can also follow the Nighthawks all season on social media.
Facebook: Nighthawk Athletics
Instagram: nighthawkathletics
X: @NPC_Nighthawks
