(October 3, 2023) Wilburton, Oklahoma - Fighting for their Region II Tournament life, the Bucks have their backs against the wall for the remainder of the season. With only five games left, the Bucks have some must win situations coming in their season. It started yesterday afternoon against the top team in the region: Eastern Oklahoma State. 

The score line did not reflect the true nature of the game. UARM was competitive throughout, and if it wasn't for some basic errors in defense, the game would have been much closer. On too many occasions, UARM defenders allowed Eastern players to get a free shot at goal which they took advantage of. Eastern had a 3-0 lead at halftime, but UARM scored first in the second half when Mario Vingarzan (Madrid, Spain) pressed the Eastern defender into giving the ball away, and Andre Cabral (Belo Horizonte, Brazil) scored from the resulting loose ball. UARM competed the whole second half but couldn't find the second goal they deserved, as they hit the crossbar and had penalty shouts waved away. Despite the positive attacking play, UARM defenders gave away 3 more goals in the half, which was not reflective on the pattern of play.  One of the highlights of the half was a double save from a penalty kick by goalkeeper Gabriel De la Barra (Santiago, Chile).

Despite the score, Coach Sherry was very positive after the match. "I thought this was a truly competitive game from our team and there is no way the scoreline is a true reflection of the game went.  I think this team would be able to compete with the best in the region if we just had that one dominant defender which most of the leading teams have.  I feel for my guys because their hard work deserves more reward than what they are receiving right now."

The men now travel to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M on Sunday, October 8th. The Bucks beat the Norse 4-3 at home earlier this season. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 pm at Red Robertson Field.

#DefendTheMountain