TMU soccer star Luis Garcia Sosa (pictured above) was “arguably, the best player on the field” Saturday afternoon.

So, it was only fitting, according to his coach, that he should score the game-winner.

That’s what the Mustang senior did with 28 seconds remaining in the first overtime, scoring the golden goal to beat No. 18 Kansas Wesleyan 1-0.

“It’s been a long week with missing three players along with elements today with triple-digit heat,” said The Master’s head coach Jim Rickard. “I was impressed with our composure and our emotional toughness.”

The victory, following two ties to start the season, was the Mustangs’ first in 2019 as they improved to 1-0-2.

The Garcia Sosa game-winner, off a free kick from 20 yards out, grabbed the headline. But the Mustang defense dominated the Coyotes, who were playing their season-opener.

The Coyotes failed to put a shot on goal and Mustang goalie Price Anderson picked up the shutout, his first of the season and the third of his career.

The Mustangs managed just three shots on goal, one in each half of regulation and, of course, the golden Garcia Sosa shot.

Garcia Sosa’s game-winner was nothing new for him. He had five last year to lead the GSAC.

This one came on a free kick at the top of the box as he bent it from left to right into the side of the net.

“Overtime can go either way,” Rickard said. “But I felt it was fitting for Luis to get the game-winner.”

After a big win over a nationally-ranked club, the Mustangs now turn their attention to Eastern Oregon University, which will travel to TMU next Wednesday.

For now, the Mustangs will soak up Saturday’s victory.

“Kansas Wesleyan is recognized as a top NAIA program and to get the win against a quality team with national recognition always makes for a good day,” Rickard said.

— Game Recap By Don Gilmore, TMU Assistant Sports Information Director