Second-Half Surge Lifts Cardinals to 2-2 Draw With No. 9 Black River

August 27, 2026
The Nest, Inside Orchard View Athletics
Justin Troyer
Presented by: Brightway Insurance, Ethan Flores Agency

Muskegon, MI-- The Orchard View Cardinal soccer team hosted No. 9-ranked Holland Black River Wednesday night in a matchup that gave the Cardinals an opportunity to test themselves against one of the top teams in Division 4.

Orchard View, entering the game at 1-2, got off to a strong start and played well during the opening minutes. Black River eventually settled into the game and began to set the tone, putting pressure on the Cardinals and taking advantage of opportunities.

The Rats took a 2-0 lead into halftime.

The second half was a different story for the Cardinals. After making adjustments at halftime, Orchard View came out with a higher level of intensity and quickly shifted the momentum back in its favor.

Freshman Daylon Huffman got the Cardinals on the board with a free kick from approximately 25 yards out scoring his first varsity goal. The goal gave Orchard View some momentum and kept the Cardinals within striking distance.  Orchard View continued to pressure Black River, and senior Nito Ortega was able to find the equalizer with an assist from senior Wyatt Johnson. 

For the second straight game, senior Nito Ortega showed why he has become one of the leaders of this Cardinal team. His impact has gone beyond the scoresheet, bringing energy, composure and leadership when Orchard View has needed it most. Against Black River, Ortega once again came through at a critical moment, helping turn a two-goal deficit into a hard-earned draw.

After trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Cardinals had fought their way back to tie the game 2-2.

The defensive line played an important role in keeping Orchard View in the match. The Cardinals stayed organized, communicated well and limited the opportunities Black River was able to create.

“Our defensive line played a strong game overall. They stayed organized, communicated well, and did a good job of limiting scoring opportunities,” said the Cardinal coaching staff. “Even though we gave up some goals, our back line consistently disrupted attacks and prevented Black River from scoring.”

The Cardinals' defensive effort, combined with the second-half push, allowed Orchard View to finish the night with a 2-2 draw against an undefeated Black River team that entered the match 3-0 and ranked No. 9 in Division 4.

For Orchard View, the draw moves the Cardinals to 1-2-1 on the season and gives the team a strong result against one of the state's best.  The Cardinals will shifts their attention to Kent City who makes the trip to Orchard View on Friday, before they open West Michigan Conference play next week against Ludington. 

Cardinal Supporters: Poo Patrol Muskegon 
Photo Credit: Trisha Stingle