Camara powers MSU past rival Buffs 1-0 in OT

by Trey Reed

November 2, 2012

WICHITA FALLS, Texas -- The savvy of senior defender Fernando Garza might have been just the difference Midwestern State needed against rival West Texas A&M Friday night at the MSU Soccer Field.

Garza forced a clock stoppage with under 10 seconds remaining the first overtime period allowing teammate Idi Camara time to drive in the lone goal of the game as the Mustangs came away with a hard fought 1-0 result.

"WT played hard and with a lot of passion," MSU coach Doug Elder said. "I thought we created more chances and played a better second half."

It was Midwestern's first win in its last seven overtime efforts with its last positive overtime result coming in its first overtime match of the season in a 1-0 win over Newman on Sep. 7.

"It's like a monkey off of our backs," Elder said. "We had nine overtimes and only one win. It makes you think you can't do it. I'm proud of the guys for overcoming that."

The win allowed the Mustangs to improve to 9-2-5 on the season and cling to slim postseason chances as MSU closes its regular season by playing host to Eastern New Mexico Sunday afternoon. Kickoff is Senior Day is set for 1 p.m.

The Mustangs and Buffs appeared destined for a second overtime period, but WT's Wayne Bruton fouled Bryan Santiago with just seconds remaining on the clock in the first overtime period.

Garza alertly went for a quick restart forcing the center official to stop the clock.

Camara lined up the shot and tucked the ball inside the far post for his first collegiate goal.

"It feels great to finally get one," Camara said. "I've been so close and I knew I had to get one and we needed this to keep our playoff run going."

West Texas A&M closes the regular season at 11-4-2.