KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — Mo.-St. Louis and Truman State battled to a 1-1 draw on Friday, extending both teams' struggles in NCAA Division II regional competition. The Tritons (5-5-6) and Bulldogs (3-9-3) traded goals in the second half, with neither able to break through despite sustained pressure throughout the match.
Pablo Nodar gave Mo.-St. Louis the lead in the 72nd minute, putting the visitors ahead in what appeared to be a breakthrough moment. The advantage proved short-lived. Henry Jenks equalized for Truman State in the 88th minute with an assist from Merritt Gregory, rescuing a point for the home side in the closing stages.
Mo.-St. Louis controlled much of the first half without finding the net, generating eight shots on goal compared to Truman State's five. The Tritons' attacking intent was evident early, with Melo Mensah and Max Matarelli testing the Bulldog defense. Truman State, meanwhile, struggled to create consistent chances, with Oliver Doyle's early attempt sailing high.
The second half saw both teams make significant tactical adjustments. Multiple substitutions reshaped the midfield battle, and the pace quickened considerably. Mo.-St. Louis maintained possession advantage and earned six corner kicks to Truman State's four, but converting those opportunities proved difficult. Goalkeeper saves became the story—Truman State's keeper made seven saves compared to four for Mo.-St. Louis.
Discipline issues emerged late in the contest. Brady Lombardo and Alexander Rami