REDDING, Calif. - Simpson University men's soccer defeated Northwest University in the Red Hawks Home Opener Saturday morning, SU had numerous chances in the first half and early in the second, but couldn't convert until late.

Northwest broke the 0-0 tie in the 71st minute on a Jordan Travis laser that found the back of the net and it seemed like that would be the only score of the match.

But things changed quickly. The Red Hawks instantly ramped up their attack and scored late in the 85th minute on a Daniel Rodriguez stunner that passed by the diving Northwest goalkeeper.

The momentum stayed in Simpson's favor the rest of the match. After an intense and physical slide tackle by the Red Hawks, NU was awarded a penalty kick in the 87th minute.

Reading the PK perfectly, SU keeper, Liam Bates dove to his left making the save and keeping Simpson's hopes for a win alive.

After both teams had chances to score the golden goal in extra time, it was SU's Alexis Rodriguez who scored the game winning goal in the 107th minute. It is Alexis Rodriguez's third goal in two games to begin the season.

The Red Hawks even their record at 1-1 and will face Menlo College on Tuesday, August 27th on the road at 11 am.