Pioneer Men’s Soccer won the NAIA National Championship December 4, 2023, versus Milligan University. Read more courtesy of mnusports.com.
WICHITA, Kan. – #18 MNU came from behind to win the National Championship 2-1 over #19 Milligan on Monday. It marks the first NAIA National Title in program history. The Pioneers found themselves behind 1-0 after an own goal, when a cross into the box was headed into the net by an MNU defender. MNU pressed for the equalizer over the next 14 minutes, and Preston McKay made it happen in the 39th minute. After collecting a pass from Diego Calderon, McKay shouldered through a defender and sneaked a pass between two defenders, where Rick Hovinga’s sliding shot connected to tie the score.
MNU controlled possession for most of the second half, and Guilherme Galvao put the Pioneers in front in the 64th minute. In an almost identical play as the first goal, Preston McKay worked around a defender and sent a low cross into the area. Galvao’s first shot was blocked by the keeper, but the ball settled near the goal line with only Galvao nearby. An easy touch finished the play, and MNU took a 2-1 lead.
For the next 25 minutes, the Pioneer defense cleared every Milligan attack until the final seconds when the Buffalo earned a corner kick. The final chance was sent away, and the Pioneers celebrated victory.
Check out MNU’s highlight video from the championship game.
