Graceland Men’s Soccer Battles to Draw with Hastings in Physical Contest

LAMONI, Iowa — August 30, 2025 — The Graceland University men's soccer team showed resilience and composure on Saturday night, earning a 2-2 draw against Hastings College at Green Field.

The Yellowjackets struck first, conceded goals in each half, and then leveled late in the second period to secure their first result of the season. The match showcased Graceland's ability to respond under pressure and highlighted the program's growing identity against one of the NAIA's traditional powerhouses.

With the draw, Graceland moves to 0-2-1 overall (0-0 Heart of America Athletic Conference), while Hastings stands at 0-2-1 overall (0-0 GPAC).

"Tonight our young team showed a lot of character in a hard-fought, physical game," head coach Bryan Courtney said. "Hastings are the defending conference champions and national tournament qualifiers from their conference. We learned how to come back from being behind and also not to let a team hang around when you are winning. We are making steps in the right direction and we look forward to applying our learnings for the next match."

Early Strike from Gourzong

Graceland opened the scoring immediately, stunning the visitors in the first 16 seconds. Forward Ryan Gourzong netted the opener off an assist from Ashton Adrian, giving the Yellowjackets a 1-0 advantage before Hastings touched the ball. The play began with a controlled buildup through midfield, where Adrian held possession and slid a through ball to Gourzong, who finished calmly into the corner.

The goal marked Graceland's first of the season and set the tone for an energetic opening stretch. Gourzong continued to press the Hastings back line, recording three total shots and one on frame.

Hastings Response Before the Break

The Broncos responded with steady possession, using the flanks and set pieces to create opportunities. In the 11th minute, forward Wade McWhorter nearly equalized when his effort rang off the post. Hastings earned three corner kicks in the final 10 minutes of the half, and the pressure finally paid off.

In the 40th minute, forward Tim Berger finished from close range off a cross from Juan Lopez-Arteaga, equalizing at 1-1. Graceland goalkeeper Yuta Hirano recorded a save moments later to keep the match level, and the sides went into halftime tied after a physical first half that included three yellow cards against Hastings.

Broncos Take the Lead

The visitors struck again in the 58th minute. Midfielder Jake Watt put Hastings ahead 2-1 with a finish from the top of the area, assisted by Berger. The sequence began with a midfield turnover and a quick distribution into space, with Watt firing past Hirano for the go-ahead goal.

Graceland regrouped and began to press higher up the field. The Yellowjackets created several chances between the 55th and 65th minutes, including attempts by Kaden Edwards, Adam Wiman, and Jack Van Den Oetelaar, all denied by Hastings goalkeeper Ethan Watkins, who finished with seven saves.

Wesner Levels the Match

The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute. Forward Joaquin Wesner capitalized on a defensive lapse, scoring unassisted to make it 2-2. Wesner, who recorded three shots with two on goal, applied pressure in the box, pouncing on a loose clearance and slotting home the equalizer.

Graceland continued to press forward, creating chances in the closing moments. Freshman Alex Iossa forced Watkins into a final save in the 90th minute, preserving the draw.

Statistical Overview

Graceland produced 17 shots, including nine on target, compared to Hastings' nine total shots with five on frame. The Yellowjackets also earned seven corner kicks to Hastings' four, reflecting sustained attacking pressure in the second half.

Gourzong and Wesner scored for Graceland, with Adrian providing the opening assist. Wiman added three shots on goal from his center back position, while Edwards and Cale Williams each contributed attempts that tested the Hastings defense.

In goal, Hirano played all 90 minutes, facing nine shots and making three saves.

For Hastings, Berger finished with one goal and one assist, while Watt added the second-half strike. Lopez-Arteaga provided an assist from the back line.

Coach's Assessment

Courtney emphasized that the match demonstrated progress for his young side. "We showed toughness and fight in coming back, which is critical for a developing team," he said. "At the same time, we have to recognize that when we take the lead, we need to keep the pressure on and not allow an opponent to settle back into the game. Those are valuable lessons, and I am confident we will build on them moving forward."

Looking Ahead

The Yellowjackets will continue their nonconference schedule on Sunday, Aug. 31, when they travel to Des Moines to face NCAA Division I opponent Drake University. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Albaugh Field.

For more information on Graceland men's soccer and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.