Roughriders Down
Illinois Central 1-0

TYLER, Texas -- In 23 matches this season prior to Thursday, Roughrider opponents had held YC to one goal just one time. It was a 2-1 loss to San Jacinto, Texas, back in September.

No. 2-ranked Yavapai only found the back of the net once in Thursday's NJCAA Tournament opener, but it was enough to top No. 7 Illinois Central 1-0 at Tyler Junior College and advance to Friday's semifinals.

"We set ourselves up to the point where we've guaranteed a Final-Four finish for the 16th time," head coach Mike Pantalione said. "But we'd like to guarantee our 12th title game appearance and sixth national championship."

Francis Khamis scored 10 minutes into the second half on an assist from Evan McNiel and the Cougars never really threatened the 'Riders.

Yavapai next will face Marshalltown, Iowa, which knocked off Mercer County, N.J., 2-1 in Thursday's final match of the first day.

-- Article from "The Daily Courier. Read it on-line at http://www.dcourier.com.