SPARTANBURG, S.C. – For the third consecutive season, the Converse University men's soccer team (9-1-9, 6-0-6 Conference Carolinas) has had its season come to an end on postseason penalty kicks. The Valkyries, playing in their second-ever NCAA Tournament game and first-ever at home, drew 1-1 with Clayton State (12-3-4, 8-1-1 Peach Belt). The Lakers advanced 5-4 on penalty kicks.

The Valkyries came out of the gate hot, scoring just under six minutes into the match with a brilliant goal from senior Jaxon Keene and an assist from fellow senior Hayden Gensler. Converse dominated time of possession in the first half.

After a shot just under a minute into the game from Clayton State, Converse did not allow the Lakers to shoot again for over 33 minutes and held a 6-4 shot advantage in the first half.

With the game seemingly sealed away, Clayton State pulled out a miraculous goal with just 17 seconds left in the game to draw it even for the first time in over 83 of game time. Converse made a last-second push at the goal but failed to take a shot and headed to overtime for the second time this postseason.

Clayton State took both shots in the first overtime period while Converse took both shots in the second overtime period, none of which found the back of the net.

Also for the second time this postseason, Converse found itself in a penalty shootout. Converse, shooting first, had the first penalty kick saved but made the next four. That first miss proved the difference as the Lakers went perfect from the line

Since the Valkyries did not advance to the third round, their season is over. For updates on all things Converse men's soccer and Converse University athletics, visit GoValkyries.com

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