Oakwood brought the Comets, but SJO brought the fireworks. Acosta found the net three times, and Stevens apparently decided records were optional.
MONTICELLO - St. Joseph-Ogden got a three-goal performance from
Yadi Acosta in his return to the field and a record-setting night from
Lucas Stevens as the Spartans rolled past Oakwood 6-2 in an IHSA regional semifinal Tuesday at Monticello.
The Spartans, now 15-6-2, scored three goals in each half to put away the Comets and earn a spot in Friday’s regional championship game against the host Monticello Sages.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks
St. Joseph-Ogden senior Yadi Acosta controls the ball during the Spartans home match against Unity in 2025.
Acosta made an immediate impact in his return after an injury that threatened to end his season, scoring three times to help power SJO’s offense.
Stevens added two goals and two assists. His two assists gave him 28 for the season, breaking the school’s single-season record.
"Stuff is coming together," said head coach Chris Stevens. "We are making a big push."
Tyler Hess also scored for the Spartans and added an assist, while Nico Harris and Skyler Graham each recorded an assist.
SJO goalkeeper Hunter Cler made four saves as the Spartans held Oakwood to nine shots on goal.
"We play like we always do," Stevens said smiling. He added, "We're lucky by having some injuries earlier in the year, allowing our players to play in positions they normally wouldn't play in. It actually helped us out."
Pedro Rangel scored both of Oakwood’s goals, taking three shots and converting twice. Both goals came off assists from Mason Swartz.
Oakwood goalkeeper Camen Harris made two saves.
The loss ended the Comets’ season with a 13-11 record.
The Spartans will face Monticello on Friday for the regional championship at 4 p.m. and a chance to continue their postseason run. In their last meeting, their 90 minute contest ended in a 2-2 draw.
Tags: St. Joseph-Ogden, SJO Spartans, SJO soccer, Oakwood, Oakwood Comets, Monticello, IHSA soccer, high school soccer, boys soccer, regional soccer, Yadi Acosta, Lucas Stevens
