DEFIANCE, Ohio -- After a disappointing season in the spring, the Heidelberg University men's soccer team kicked off the 2021 season with a strong showing. The Student Princes began their campaign at the Yellow Jackets of Defiance, where they used a late goal to earn a 2-1 win.   

Christopher Flores scored in the 34th minute on a chip over the Yellow Jacket goalkeeper from just outside the penalty area. Heidelberg carried its 1-0 lead into halftime. 

A communication error on a pass resulted in an own goal conceded by the Student Princes in the 47th minute. 

Tied 1-1 in the final minutes, Flores managed to find the back of the net again. This time with the help of a cross from Evan McAllister. 

Heidelberg out-shot the Yellow Jackets 12-11 and shots on goal 6-5. Flores recorded four shots with three on goal. 

Sigurd Ilestad, back in goal after two seasons as a field player, recorded three saves between the pipes for the Student Princes. It was the first collegiate victory for the Norwegian senior.  

"Defiance was a tough opponent today and really put us in some challenging spots," said Head Coach Nick Spell. "I am excited to see how the guys pressed on, stayed positive and played gritty. We will enjoy the win and get back at it tomorrow for the weekend."

The win was Spell's first on the men's side following a 15-year stint as the women's coach. 

Heidelberg has a pair of road games this weekend. First a 2 p.m. game at Earlham on Saturday, then another 2 p.m. kickoff at Anderson on Sunday.