Photo by: Sydnee Sterkel
Sterkel and Aparicio Stun Othello: Bulldogs Secure Gritty Shootout Win at Home
ELLENSBURG, WA — In a match that demanded every ounce of their resilience, the Ellensburg Bulldogs soccer team pulled off a dramatic comeback victory over the Othello Huskies on Tuesday, April 21. After trailing for over 50 minutes of play, the Bulldogs found a late equalizer and clinical precision in the penalty shootout to secure a 2–1 (3–1 PK) victory.
The Long Climb Back
Othello took control of the scoreboard early, with Orlando Farias finding the back of the net in the 19th minute to give the Huskies a 1–0 lead. For the remainder of the first half and much of the second, the Bulldogs’ offense was kept at bay by a disciplined Othello defense.
However, the Bulldogs’ relentless pressure finally broke through in the 73rd minute. Angel Aparicio—who has been a scoring machine for Ellensburg this month—delivered the equalizer to knot the game at 1–1 and eventually force the contest into a shootout.
Clinical From the Spot
When the match moved to penalty kicks, the Bulldogs left no doubt. Ellensburg’s shooters were nearly perfect, while the defense stood tall to secure a 3–1 win in the shootout. The successful PKs were delivered by:
- Angel Aparicio
- Alejandro Jasso
- Connor Beaty.
Sterkel’s Masterclass
While the scorers will grab the headlines, the victory was anchored by a spectacular performance from goalkeeper Parker Sterkel. Throughout regulation and overtime, Sterkel was a literal wall, recording 11 saves to keep the Bulldogs within striking distance. He then punctuated his night by recording a crucial save in the shootout, effectively demoralizing the Huskies’ shooters and sealing the win.
Match Summary: Ellensburg 2, Othello 1 (SO)
| Team | Regulation | Shootout | Final |
|---|---|---|---|
| Othello | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Ellensburg | 1 | 3 | 2 |
Scoring Timeline:
- 19:00 (OHS): Orlando Farias
- 73:00 (EHS): Angel Aparicio
Shootout Results (EHS Wins 3–1):
- EHS Shooters: Aparicio (G), Jasso (G), Beaty (G)
- EHS Keeper: Parker Sterkel — 1 PK Save
Match Goalkeeping:
- Ellensburg: Parker Sterkel — 11 Saves
The Road Ahead
This victory marks a significant momentum shift for the Bulldogs as they navigate the closing stretch of the CWAC season. The ability to win close, high-pressure games in shootout fashion is becoming a hallmark of this squad, making them a terrifying matchup for any opponent in the postseason.