Score: Life U 2, Keiser 0
Records: Life U, 3-1-0; Keiser 1-1-0
MARIETTA, Ga. — The No. 9 Life University men's soccer team picked up an early-season resume win over the No. 11 ranked Seahawks of Keiser at home late Friday night. Weathering the storm early and battling through the heat in Marietta, Life U added two second-half goals that proved to be the difference in the contest.
The Seahawks dominated much of the early action, opening with two corner chances in the first six minutes. Keiser continued the possession well into the late minutes of the first half but the Running Eagles back line held strong. The Seahawks had the better of the chances in the first frame, posting eight shots and forcing three saves out of Pawel Wolny. Despite just four shots in the first 45, Life U made the Keiser keeper work, requiring three saves to keep the contest level.
Out of the break, the contest flipped completely. Life U dominated the possession and chances, finally breaking the draw. In the 66th minute, Thomas Rodella got the job done himself, picking the pocket of the Seahawks back line before slotting home the opportunity. Though Keiser continued to have corner kick chances, a Life U counter attack on an overstretched back line led a second goal with just under four minutes left. Enrico Burigotto buried the chance provided by Vicente Cuquerella.
Closing the contest 2-0, Life U added a major statement win to their early-season resume.
Up next, the Running Eagles remain at home, taking on RV St. Thomas on Sunday, Sept. 6.
"Game of two halves. First half Keiser got the better of the play," said Head Coach Alex Pama. "With some adjustments at half time and identifying where our possibilities could come from, we took care of the game. A mistake led to the 1-0. The 2-0 was important as it sealed the game. This was a national championship level game with two games playing at a fast pace. We kept our first clean sheet which should give us confidence for Sunday when we meet a good St. Thomas and their forward was impressive today in their game vs Faulkner. So again we have to be sharp and play our game in order to get another result. We thank all our fans for their support and see everyone Sunday."
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:
--Keiser out shot Life U, 15-2.
--The Seahawks had 13 corners to the 3 of the Running Eagles.
--It was an extremely physical contest with 35 fouls and 3 yellow cards.
TURNING POINT:
--Life U broke the scoreless draw in the 66th minute.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
--Thomas Rodella and Enrico Burigotto recorded a goal in the contest.
--The lone assist came from Vicente Cuquerella.
--Pawel Wolny recorded a clean sheet.
