KC Comets fall to Chihuahua in overtime, still hope to qualify for MASL playoffs

Very little could separate the Kansas City Comets from defending Major Arena Soccer League champion Chihuahua on Friday at Cable Dahmer Arena.

After scoring a fourth-quarter equalizer against the Savage, however, the Comets suffered their fourth overtime defeat since Jan. 12. The deciding goal in the 3-1 decision came 26 seconds into the extra period.

The Comets went ahead 1-0 early in the first quarter when pressure from Rian Marques forced a turnover and Ramone Palmer took advantag. The Savage equalized with just 15 seconds left in the first half before taking the 2-1 lead early in the third period.

The Comets were struggling to finish opportunities, but Zach Reget finally answered for KC. His 24th goal of the season tied the contest at 2-2 and the game eventually went to overtime.

The Savage made quick work in overtime as Brandon González scored the sudden-death overtime winner.

Despite earning just a point with another overtime heartbreaker, Comets coach Stefan Stokic had positive takeaways.

“I’m really proud of the boys for the way they executed the game plan,” he said. “For the most part, we limited Chihuahua to their chances.”

The Comets’ defense turned in another strong performance and blocked 20 shots while Nicolau Neto made 15 saves. Stokic was happy with the defensive effort but would have liked his team to be more efficient offensively.

“The only thing missing was the finishing product,” Stokic said.

He maintains hope that the Comets can build some momentum in their final six games and make a run in the Ron Newman Cup Playoffs.

Playoff picture

The Comets currently hold the fourth and final seed for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, but securing a playoff spot isn’t going to be easy. The Baltimore Blast trail by seven points but have four games in hand.

Both teams have challenging opponents ahead. The Comets conclude the season with a match at the St. Louis Ambush before playing host to the Western Conference-leading San Diego Sockers. Four of Baltimore’s remaining 10 games will be against MASL’s two weakest teams.

In the meantime, the Comets will head to California for matchups against the Sockers on Feb. 25 and Empire Strykers Feb. 28. They return home for Retro Night on March 2 against the Ambush. Tickets are available at kccomets.com/tickets.