Anthony Niboli converted a penalty kick late in the match to deliver Westmont men’s soccer it’s first Golden State Athletic Conference win of the season in a 1-0 win over Hope International.
“We were really desperate to get a win in the league,” said a relieved Westmont coach Dave Wolf. “I’m hoping that the win will ignite us a little bit. I think we’re a better team than what we’ve showed.”
The Warriors (4-4, 1-2 GSAC) benefited from the Royals being short-handed. Due to several injuries, Hope International (7-2-1, 1-2) only had one bench player and started to wear down but the end of the match.
“It just feels good to get the win and to get the three points,” Wolf said.
The Warriors controlled possession for much of the game but weren’t able to break through until the 82nd minute when Niboli was brought down right at the edge of the box. The referee signaled for the PK and Niboli calmly stroked it into the lower-left corner for the score.
Westmont returns to action on Wednesday with a home match against Azusa Pacific.
