Virginia Intermont defeats Bethel in shootout for NAIA Region XII Title
MAYFIELD, Ky. -- In the finale of an exciting NAIA Region XII tournament held at Mid-Continent University in Mayfield, the Virginia Intermont College Cobras won an exciting game over Bethel College (Tenn.) in a shootout 7-6 to earn the automatic berth to the NAIA National Championships in Daytona, Fla.
Bethel jumped out to a quick start as Tom Malton knocked home the game's first goal midways through the first half. Despite a furious attack by VI, Bethel held their 1-0 lead to the half.
In the second half, VI scored two quick goals to take a 2-1 lead and what seemed the momentum. The Wildcats kept fighting and was able to knot up the score with just five minutes remaining in regulation off a header by Rob Swann.
After the two teams played two scoreless overtime sessions, the contest went to penalty kicks to decide the NAIA Region XII Champion. Bethel had its opportunity to snatch the championship, up 4-3 in PKs, but missed the game winner. VI went on to win the shootout 7-6.
The Cobras improve to 12-5-2 on the season, while Bethel ends another solid season at 11-8-2.