Head coach Steven Smith said his Hope College men's soccer players responded to an early deficit just like he thought they would.
The Flying Dutchmen defeated Albion College 3-2 Wednesday at Van Andel Soccer Stadium and snapped a five-match losing streak.
Three different players scored for Hope, which improved to 4-6 overall and 1-4 in Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association play.
The Flying Dutchmen rebounded after falling behind 1-0 in the 14th minute. They delivered their biggest goal output since a season-opening, 4-0 win against Grace Bible.
"We solved a lot of things about our internal struggles going into Kalamazoo (Saturday). We said we were going in the right direction," Smith said. "Kalamazoo just beat us. They're a very good team.
"(Tonight) we thought was a winnable game. With our spirits going in the right direction for the first time in a long time, that first goal didn't hurt us the same way. Our guys really responded. I'm really proud of them."
Junior William Bennick of Grand Haven, Michigan (Grand Haven HS), evened the score at 1-1 with his first goal of the season in the 28th minute. Freshman Sam Mason of Wheaton, Illinois (Wheaton North HS), had the assist.
Hope snapped a 1-1 tie by scoring twice after halftime.
Senior David Porte of Mattawan, Michigan (Mattawan HS), delivered his third goal of the season 6:11 into the second half. Sophomore David White of Vernon Hills, Illinois (Vernon Hills HS), earned the assist.
Freshman Jared Wondergem of Hudsonville, Michigan (Hudsonville HS), followed 16 minutes later with his third goal of the season for a 3-1 Hope lead.
The Flying Dutchmen withstood a goal from Albion (4-5-1, 2-3 MIAA) with the 78th minute.
Hope returns to action on Saturday, Oct. 3 when the Flying Dutchmen welcome Trine to Van Andel Soccer Stadium for a 7 p.m. match.