Box Score Lexington, Ky. – The Transylvania men's soccer team struggled to find their rhythm in a 2-0 defeat to the Otterbein University Cardinals at Pat Deacon Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The loss drops the Pioneers back to 0-1-1 on the season while the win moves the Cardinals to 1-0-0 on the year.
Playing host to the Cardinals in their fall 2021 season opener, the Pioneers engaged in a physical battle with their opponents from the opening kick. Both teams worked tirelessly to command possession of the ball within the opening minutes. The half was highlighted by a great save from Cade Terry and multiple blocks from the Pioneer defense to force a 0-0 deadlock after 45 minutes of play.
After an early chance from Max Nusbacher, Otterbein ramped up the pressure in the second half. The Cardinals dispossessed the Pioneers and opened the scoring on a counterattack opportunity in the 67th minute. Less than ten minutes later, Otterbein earned a corner kick, which was headed into the back of net to double the advantage to 2-0 in the 75th minute.
Transylvania made a series of concerted last-ditch efforts in the closing minutes but were unable to summon a scoring moment. The Cardinals had the edge over the Pioneers in shots taken at 17-5 with a 5-2 advantage in shots on goal.
Terry went the full 90 minutes for the Pioneers in goal, making three saves on the afternoon.
The Pioneers will look to rebound on Sunday, September 5 against the Kenyon College Lords at Pat Deacon Stadium. The contest is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM.
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