WILLIAMSBURG, KY. - The Life University men's soccer team battled to a heartbreaking draw Saturday afternoon after leading 2-0 with less than ten minutes to play.
In the first half, both teams struggled to capitalize on early chances with a 0-0 draw in the opening half. The Running Eagles totaled five shots to the Patriots four in the opening half.
Out of half, the Running Eagles continued to create chances as Thomas Rodella finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute.
Rodella then doubled the lead in the 79th minute with a strike from just inside the box on a counter. Ervin Sula delivered the long ball to earn the assist. Unfortunately for Life U, the two goal lead was short-lived as the Patriots capitalized on a corner moments later in the 81st minute. UC then continued to pile on the pressure with all the possession in the final stages, earning a free kick and contiually sending crosses back into the box. Eventually, with just under three minutes to play, the Patriots were able to break through once more with their second header of the contest, 2-2.
"Hard fought battle between two good teams so in the end a draw is a fair result but I can understand our players disappointment when we were leading 2-0 with 8 minutes to go. A couple of errors cost us but I am still very proud." said Head Coach Alex Pama. "This is a brand new team with only very few returners so for them to come up with a result against a side that always competes in the National Tournament proves that we can hang with the best of them. With a little more luck and experience we can also beat these teams. Now we get ready for our first conference game against a very good Thomas side. Again we remain on the road, so we will have to play our very best to keep our unbeaten status."
Up next, the Running Eagles travel to open conference play against Thomas University in Thomasville, Ga. at 4:30 p.m.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:
-- Life U was out shot 18-13.
-- There were 22 fouls between the two teams including six cards split evenly.
-- Thomas Rodella scored both goals and continues to lead the NAIA in total goals so far this season.
-- Lukas Poelman made four saves in the game.
