ST. GEORGE, Utah—Griffins win conference opener in overtime. Danny Darelli scored his third goal of season on an overtime penalty to give the Griffins the win over Dixie State.
 
That was a really well-played game from both sides," Head Coach Josh Pittman said. "Dixie State came out flying in the first half but we weathered the storm and were able to slowly get a grip on the game."
 
The Trailblazers outshot the Griffins 5-1 in the first half. Will Desantis was called into action in the first minute, making a save on Idris Alabi's shot. Westminster registered its only shot in the 40th minute, a header from Danny Darelli that forced goalkeeper Zach Nielson into a save.
 
The Griffins took one more shot, 5-4, as the second half evened out. Both goalkeeper made three second half saves to keep the score even at 0-0 and send the game into overtime.
 
Darelli earned a penalty kick in the eighth minute after a great ball from Kaden Amano played him into the area. Darelli converted from the spot and sealed the 1-0 win.
 
"We were focused on this game," Pittman remarked. We had a better week of training which translated into a better performance."
 
Desantis finished the night with four saves. He and the defense earned their third shutout of the season.
 
Darelli's overtime goal is his second game winner and third of the season. Darelli was threat all night with four shots and all on goal.
 
The Griffins travel home for a kickoff against Colorado Christian on Sunday, 9/22, at 1 pm on Dumke Field.