Men's Soccer Pulls off Stunner in Season Opener

Men's Soccer Pulls off Stunner in Season Opener

Team Stats

September 5, 2014
The Faith men's soccer team was able to turn a fast start into victory over NCCAA #2 and defending region champions Providence University College on Friday, 9/5/14.  The match started with Faith creating two great scoring chances in the first 6 minutes before they were finally able to capitalize on an unstoppable shot from 25 yards by Jr. midfielder Aaron Jones with the assist from Fr. Tui Hunkin in the 26th minute. In the 38th minute Jr. forward JJ Parkhurst intercepted a pass near the end of Providence 18 yard box and quickly put it in the back of the net. The Eagles led 2-0 at the break.
 
Providence came out of halftime as the more aggressive team as they put a shot off the post within the first minute and kept the pressure on until the 56th minute when they finally got the ball in the net. Faith was able to briefly regain the momentum as Fr. Josh Bray beat the keeper with a solid shot from distance off an assist from Jones. Providence quickly put the Eagles on their heels again as they pressed forward. They were able to capitalize on a defensive miscommunication to put in a second goal with just five minutes remaining.  Faith was able to regroup and hold strong defensively to close out with an unprecedented 3-2 win. Providence out shot Faith 14-3 in the second half but the 2 goal advantage and solid goalkeeping by freshman David Levy was enough to preserve the win.
'We had a great start and learned quite a few important lessons about perseverance this game, but all in all it is great to get a win and I'm excited about the potential this team has,' said Coach Backous. The Eagles face NAIA opponent Lincoln Christian Saturday, 9/6 and then have a series of MCCC conference games the following week.  Faith is 1-0 on the season and in the NCCAA North Central Region.