Patriots drop 1-0 decision at Mars Hill

MARS HILL, N.C. - Mars Hill College scored with 2:03 left in the first half and that goal led to a 1-0 win over Francis Marion University, Friday night (Sept. 11) in men's soccer action at Meares Stadium.

The Lions improve to 1-3-1. The Patriots fall to 3-2.  FMU will host Mount Olive College on Wednesday at 4 p.m.

The Lions controlled the ball for most of the game, but were unable to score until late in the first half. Steven Bivens fed the ball to Friddy Hoegener who scored past FMU junior goalkeeper Clark Richeson from 10 yards out at the 42:57 mark.

Mars Hill had chances in the second half to increase the lead but failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities. At the 63:59 and 69:07 marks, Giovanni Malnati had breakaway shots on goal but pushed the ball high on both attempts.

Sophomore forward Emerson Peredo almost tied the game for the Patriots at the 88:44 mark, but Justin Spencer's diving save preserved the shutout.

Mars Hill outshot Francis Marion 16-11. Spencer recorded five saves for the Lions. Richeson netted four saves for the Patriots.