SEARCY, Ark. — A second-half goal by Delta State's Tazjean Bird proved to be the difference Thursday night as the Harding men's soccer team dropped a 1-0 decision in its 2026 season opener at Stevens Soccer Complex.
The match marked the collegiate head coaching debut for Harding alumnus Thom Jacquet. The Bisons were searching for their first win in a season opener since 2013. Harding now holds a 10-7-3 advantage in the all-time series against Delta State.
How It Happened
Both squads battled through a scoreless first half before the Statesmen (1-0-0) broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute. Delta State defender Micah Soper delivered a long cross from outside the 18-yard box on the right flank to the top of the 6-yard box, setting up Bird for a tap-in finish past Harding goalkeeper Andrew Wagenblatt.
Harding (0-1-0) pushed forward in search of an equalizer, generating six second-half shots and earning six corner kicks overall. Junior forward Nojus Grudis and senior forward Davis Weir put shots on target in the opening half, while midfielder Spencer Patterson and midfielder Roy Santibanez tested Delta State keeper Daniel Santema in the second period. However, Santema turned away all four shots on goal to preserve the shutout.
Match Notes
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Goalkeeping: Fifth-year transfer Andrew Wagenblatt made seven saves in his Harding debut, including six in the second half to keep the Bisons within a single score. Santema recorded four saves for Delta State.
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Shot Totals: Delta State held a 13-10 advantage in total shots and an 8-4 edge in shots on goal.
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Set Pieces & Discipline: Both teams finished with six corner kicks. The match was cleanly played throughout, with zero yellow or red cards issued and 19 total fouls whistled (10 on Harding, nine on Delta State).
Up Next
Harding continues its three-game season-opening homestand Thursday, Sept. 3, when the Bisons host Dallas Baptist at 2 p.m. at Stevens Soccer Complex.
