Dalton Christopher
Assistant Athletic Director - Communications & Media
dchristopher@transy.edu

HANOVER, IN - Transylvania University ran out of time in the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) Semifinals on Tuesday, as Hanover advanced with a 3-2 win in the final moments of the match. 

Both teams began Tuesday's matchup working to maintain possession and find their offense, with each team taking multiple shots on goal in a physical and competitive half. At the 22 minute mark, Henry Roetker would find the back of the net for the Pioneers, assisted by McKay Wheatley, to give Transy an early 1-0 lead. Hanover would respond with a goal just minutes later, as Omar Dizdar was awarded a penalty kick opportunity at the 29 minute mark after a yellow card was assessed to Transy. Coming into the second half tied at 1-1, both teams would relentlessly pursue the goal, but strong defensive performances and a quickened pace made for few opportunities. In the 83rd minute, Hanover would find their second goal of the afternoon to take a 2-1 advantage.

In the 89th minute, with less than 40 seconds remaining, Transy's Jake Renneker would land an impressive game tying goal, assisted from Jackson Holt and Henry Roetker. With less than 30 seconds remaining, Hanover advanced into scoring range as a pass from Dizdar led to a goal from Clayton Anderson with just four seconds remaining. Transylvania would take a final opportunity to advance, but ran out of time to attempt a final shot. Hanover secured the 3-2 victory in the process. Transylvania ends their 2024 season with a record of 9-5-4, finishing with a 5-1-3 record in the HCAC.

Head Coach Ben Federici is proud of his team's effort and looks forward to what possibilities may come next season. 

"Sometimes this game can be cruel," Federici said. "I'm really proud of every single one of our guys, they gave it their all. I feel like they deserved more than this today. I saw a lot of sad faces after the game, but I also saw a lot of determination. I know we will be back, look out for this group next year."

Transylvania University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at www.transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.