PK Lifts RiverHawks

WICHITA FALLS, Texas --- Zach Schmoker's penalty kick in the 87th minute proved to be the difference as Northeastern State opened the 2010 campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win over the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs.

The RiverHawks, 1-0, were opportunistic and overcame a 2-1 deficit with two goals in the final 26:33 to claim the win.

Andre Hernandez scored twice, his first coming in the 35th minute to give Northeastern State a 1-0 advantage. However, Carlos Verdugo scored with no time remaining in the half to tie the match at 1-all at intermission.

UCCS tacked on another tally on Jaron Stewart's penalty kick 8:18 into the second half for a 2-1 lead. However, Hernandez took a short cross from Henry Wildenborg at the top of the six-yard line and beat the keeper to knot the game again, 2-2, setting the stage for Schmoker's game-winner at the 86:43 mark. Schmoker also had an assist in the match as well.

Northeastern State will take on CSU-Pueblo in Wichita Falls, Texas, on Sunday at 11 a.m.