Box Score LA MIRADA, Calif. --- It was a blistering display of scoring prowess by Biola as the No. 22 Eagles took down Arizona Christian 6-0 on Tuesday night to cement their spot as the second place team in the Golden State Athletic Conference.
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The Eagles leapfrogged San Diego Christian to claim the runner up spot by increasing their point total to 18. They sit one point ahead of SDC and the Hawks take on Vanguard tomorrow, the Lions are currently in fifth place.Â
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Biola simply overpowered ACU as the Eagles outshot the Firestorm 30-1 over the ourse of the evening to move to 12-3-1 (6-3 GSAC) and drop ACU to 9-8-0 (2-7 GSAC).
John Hanscom sparked Biola early with a goal in the seventh minute of regulation. His unassisted rebound goal got the Eagles off to a fantastic start after they lost 2-0 to ACU earlier this season.
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"It was nice that we scored early and then it could just be a nice, enjoyable time for everybody to recognize our seniors and get all of them some playing time," said Head Coach
Todd Elkins. "That first goal was like a monkey off our back, and even though the next one took a little while to come, it was still such a relief."
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After the first goal the two teams battled for possession for a little while until senior
Scott Hayes picked up his first goal of the season to extend the lead in the 43
rd minute.
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Once the second half began the floodgates opened for the Eagles who scored four more goals in a period of 20 minutes following the break.
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Reigning GSAC offensive player of the week
Joey O'Keefe kept his hot foot alive by tacking on two goals and
Daniel Chew and
Marshall Deogracia added the others.
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Chew, a senior, continued the best season of his four-year career by adding his 14
th goal of the season.
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Many seniors got in on the score sheet in an evening that was completely dedicated to honoring and observing the accomplishments of BU's seven talented graduating players.
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Stephen Day and
Carlos Ballesteros added assists and
Kevin Kiser and
Bryan Williams contributed to the Eagles phenomenal defensive performance that shutout the Firestorm.
Joao Toscan also appeared at senior night for Biola, serving as an emotional inspiration for BU after he suffered a season-ending injury in just the fourth match of the year.
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Hanscom had a career day with his goal and two assists, he upped his season point total to 15, the third most on the squad.
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"It is important for us to use these games to build. Yeah, we scored a bunch of goals this game, but what can we take to our next game, as we only have one more game before playoffs," said Elkins.
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The Eagles travel to The Master's College to wrap up their regular season with a 3 p.m. match with the Mustangs.
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Coach's comments about the seniors are below:
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Carlos Ballesteros is a hungry scorer with a nose for runs and finishing. He looks for goals as a poacher, but is skilled enough to create his own goals. In 2011 he scored the game winner in the Regional Final that put us into the National Tournament. He started the year off strong, and hoped for a great season as a leader and starter. He improved his shot and composure in front of goal, and he loves soccer and worked hard this offseason. In his time at Biola he has scored some world-class goals, and maintains a calm demeanor and presence on the field. He has the ability to undo defensive shape and be a creative spark. He is a loyal friend to his teammates and competitor at all times."
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Daniel Chew is an iron man. He is rarely injured and sets the bar for work rate. He did not a great deal of experience at a high level of competition coming in, but he worked to develop his skill and finishing year after year. He became a leader we could count on for focus and drive, and pushed himself to become a true force in the attacking third. He has a knack for creating havoc and chaos for back lines, and he has a great shot and good game sense for a forward. He has been a great leader and is a wonderful young man of God."
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Stephen Day had a rough start to his Biola career with an injury, but he worked hard during the offseason, which can be seen from his tireless work rate and commitment to the 'process' of excellence. He brings a great mix of the joy of the game and the competitive drive that pushes those around him. He has good vision and distribution on the ball allows him to play anywhere in the midfield. He shows intelligence on the field and communicates well with his teammates. He is our most experienced player, and has used it to become a great leader to our young team. We hope all the best and that he finds success in all endeavors in the future."
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Scott Hayes is a strong, fast defender that is committed to doing all he can to help his team win. After studying abroad this past spring he had to work extra hard to get himself back into game shape and back into the starting lineup. As one of only two returners to the back line he brings all his experience to each game to help shore up the defense. Scott brings a great attitude and work rate each day to training sessions, and he will no doubt take that attitude into whatever God has for him after Biola."
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Kevin Kiser is the anchor of our back line, and he is a tremendously talented player technically. He made great strides from spring and preseason to become a leader and take ownership of his role on the team, especially at the fall of our other center back to injury. He is respected by coaches and players alike, and has scored some great goals. He takes his job personally and has a great work rate. He is an exciting athlete who has the potential to continue playing soccer at next level."
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Joao Toscan is a defender who, despite having two season-ending knee injuries during his time at Biola, has been a huge part of this team. He is a great ball winner that brings tons of intensity and heart to the practice and game field. He leads by example and challenges his teammates to play as hard as he did on every play. He is a player that gave more than he got from the game. His injury this season was a big blow to him and this team, but he continues to be a great inspiration. His presence still reminds his teammates to be thankful for every opportunity they get to compete."
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Bryan Williams is a hard working defender that cares more about his team than himself. He is an example of persistence and true dedication. Bryan seems to always be motivated to be the best teammate he can be and is always looking for ways to make the team better. He challenges those around him to truly appreciate what they have here at Biola."