Rapid City, S.D. – Adams State secured their first victory over an RMAC opponent since 2022 with a convincing 6-1 win Friday afternoon. While the game does not count towards RMAC standings, it marks the most goals scored since the men's soccer program was founded in 2009.
"The whole team needed this win after Saturday's loss. I couldn't be more proud of the work everybody put in this week during practice, and I'm obviously very excited with the result today. Hopefully this shows what we're made of this season, and that there's more to come," said head coach Justin Gilfert.
Adams State wasted no time establishing control, with midfielder Ranulfo Lopez scoring just three minutes into the match. The Grizzlies' early lead set the pace, and South Dakota Mines struggled to keep up as Adams State pressed forward.
The pressure paid off again in the 18th minute when Sebastian Flores doubled the lead with a well-placed shot, assisted by a smooth build-up from midfield. The Grizzlies weren't done yet. Just six minutes later, Tim Mietenkorte found the back of the net with a crisp finish, extending the lead to 3-0.
While South Dakota Mines fought to create opportunities, Adams State's defense, led by Mario Alejo and Berend Heijmans, kept their opponents at bay, limiting the home side's efforts to long-range shots and deflections.
In the second half, Adams State continued their relentless attack. In the 75th minute, substitute Marius Wirz made an immediate impact, scoring to make it 4-0. Just five minutes later, Tobias Sereinig added his name to the score sheet, blasting home a fifth goal for the Grizzlies.
The substitutions paid off yet again when Kaidin Reese scored in the 85th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by South Dakota Mines, bringing the score to 6-0.
Despite the deficit, South Dakota Mines pushed for a consolation goal, which came in the 85th minute when Jeff Wacker found the net, breaking Adams State goalkeeper JP Fernandez's clean sheet. Fernandez had a solid performance overall, making three key saves to deny the Hardrockers any momentum.
Adams State men's soccer will play at home Sunday at noon against Colorado Christian, looking to continue their winning streak.
