Game Recap and Takeaways:
The 14th ranked Indiana Hoosiers Men’s Soccer Program continues to ride high, this time beating the 25th ranked Kentucky Wildcats by a score of 2-1. Making the 3 hour trek to Lexington, Kentucky, the Hoosiers were no doubt looking to build upon their recent strong performances, and they did just that.
Once again, however, the Hoosiers fell behind. Joaquín Brizuela of the Kentucky Wildcats took an early lead and the Hoosiers were instantly placed in a very familiar position – trailing in the score line. It’s a weird circumstance, honestly. The Hoosiers very regularly have trailed in games this season, but almost always come storming back and either tie or win (with most cases being a win).
This match was no different, as the Hoosiers fell behind 1-0 and then were lifted by none other than Palmer Ault (go figure), who scored a penalty in the 64th minute and then buried another goal in the 79th minute to take the lead. The Hoosiers never looked back. This now makes SIX comeback victories for the Hoosiers this season over 13 total games played. Nearly one out of every two games, the Hoosiers have fallen into a deficit, fought back, and won the match.
It’s scary that the Hoosiers fall into these predicaments so often – especially as the Big Ten Tournament and subsequent College Cup Playoffs loom in the distance – but it is also weirdly comforting how well the Hoosiers deal with adversity. When these bigger, championship level matches arise, I have no doubt that there will be an instance where the Hoosiers come back and win an important game. When that happens, remember this run the Hoosiers have been going on in 2025. The squad has been battling with unprecedented heart all season long.
Hoosiers Player of the Match:
Once again, the winner of the Hoosiers Player of the Match is the star from Noblesville, Indiana, Palmer Ault. Ault converted on both the game tying and game winning goal on Tuesday night, cementing the comeback fully and handing the Kentucky Wildcats their 2nd loss on the season.
Ault is having a dream season thus far for the Hoosiers and is now in the top 5 for most goals in the entire country with 11. He will look to continue his hot streak on Friday, October 17 as the Hoosiers take on Hanover College at 7:00 PM ET at Bill Armstrong Stadium.
Other IU Soccer Reads:
–IU Men’s Soccer Season Preview