SEATAC, Wash. – The Clark College Penguins opened their 2025 season on the road Saturday afternoon, battling Highline to a 2-2 draw in a competitive NWAC West-Region matchup.
Highline struck quickly in the first half to take an early lead. However, in the 12th minute, Aaron Anitok-Brokken buried the Penguins' first goal, unassisted, of the season to even the score. Just five minutes later, Akeem Archer gave Clark the advantage with a well-placed finish off an assist from Travis O'Hara, putting the Penguins up 2-1 at halftime. "Our team showed up ready to compete," reflected Penguin head coach Jeff Lukowiak. "Even though we were missing six or seven key players due to early injuries and other setbacks, this group stepped up and gave everything they had."
The Penguins' offense tallied seven total shots, all on target, showing efficiency in their attacking chances. Archer, Anitok-Brokken, and newcomers Lucas Mallett, Julio Cesar Mondragon, Ian Catarino-Cruz, and Hazim Huskic each recorded shots on goal, testing the Highline keeper throughout the match.
Defensively, goalkeeper Glenn Kolibas played the first half and registered two saves, while Clark's defense absorbed pressure in the second frame with transfer Sophomore Patrick Murphy defending goal. Highline managed the equalizer in the 51st minute, and despite strong efforts, the Penguins couldn't find the go-ahead goal.
Discipline played a role late, with Clark picking up three yellow cards, including cautions to Mondragon, Archer, and Brandon Hernandez Cruz, as the match grew more physical.
Though the result wasn't the win they hoped for, the Penguins showed resilience and attacking promise in their season debut. With contributions from both returning players and fresh faces, Clark begins the year 0-0-1 in conference play and will look to build momentum as the season continues. "Traveling, competing, and being away from home for 13 hours on the first day of league play sets the standard for what this season demands: discipline, resolve, and composure, said Lukowiak. "Yesterday we proved we can rise to that challenge—even while shorthanded."
Next up, Clark (0-0-1, 0-0-1 WEST) will travel to Pierce to take on the Raiders (0-5-1, 0-1 WEST) on Wednesday, Sept 3. Kickoff is set for 4:00pm. "I'm excited about what's ahead," Lukowiak concluded. "If we keep building on this mentality, I believe we'll put ourselves in position to be playing for a championship come November."
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