BREAKING: In a dramatic finish, the Duluth Marshall boys’ soccer team suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 overtime loss to Southwest Christian in the Class A quarterfinals on October 26, 2023. The match, held in Forest Lake, ended in disappointment for the Hilltoppers who were poised to win before a last-minute goal forced extra time.
As the clock ticked down in the second half, Southwest Christian’s Brody Uglum equalized in the 76th minute, turning the tide of the game. Stars coach Luke Herbert warned his team about the imminent threat, but the Hilltoppers couldn’t regain their momentum.
“To get a goal with under 5 minutes is such a huge momentum swing,” said Herbert, reflecting on the pivotal moment that shifted the game’s dynamics.
Despite the frigid conditions, Hilltopper coach Mike Sengbush remained optimistic, stating his team was ready for the challenge even as they entered overtime. “The guys were fine,” he remarked, noting that while players were cramping up, they almost scored right off the overtime kickoff.
However, it was Andrew Nicholson who delivered the crushing blow, netting the game-winner just before the end of the first overtime period. This marks the third consecutive year that Duluth Marshall’s season has concluded in the state quarterfinals.
Throughout the match, Duluth Marshall initially struggled to maintain possession, with Southwest Christian controlling the pace early on. Their only serious shot on goal was thwarted by Hilltopper goalie Kyler Black, who made an impressive nine saves during the game.
“We weren’t particularly dangerous,” admitted Herbert. “We had a lot of possession without creating a lot of opportunities.”
As the match progressed, Duluth Marshall found their rhythm. Benson Peterson broke through for a goal in the second half, bringing hope back to the Hilltoppers. “We knew that a goal was going to come through the middle,” Peterson explained, crediting his prior discussions with the coach for his successful strike.
Black’s performance was a highlight for Duluth Marshall, keeping the opposing team at bay for over 75 minutes. Sengbush praised Black’s athleticism and ability to read the game, despite the disappointing outcome.
Marshall concluded their season with a record of 11-6-2, and Sengbush acknowledged the emotional toll of the loss. “It gets tough coming down here and losing,” he said. “This was one of the best opportunities we’ve had to advance, but obviously we’ve got a lot of broken hearts up there right now.”
As fans and players reflect on the season, the Hilltoppers will regroup and look ahead to next year, hopeful for a chance to turn heartbreak into triumph.
