Lexington, Ky. – The Transylvania men's soccer team could not find their attacking groove in a 3-1 setback against the Kenyon College Lords on Sunday afternoon at Pat Deacon Stadium.
The loss drops the Pioneers to 0-2-1 on the year while the Lords improved to 1-1-1 on the season.
The Pioneers fell back in their defensive half within the opening minutes and aimed to battle out of the formation. Goalkeeper Cade Terry looked to spark a Pioneer run by making a trio of saves within the first fifteen minutes. However, the Lords broke through with a newfound effort from just within the penalty area that resulted in a 1-0 advantage in the 17th minute.
After a regroup following the opening goal, the Pioneers struck on the counterattack minutes after falling behind. Andrew Ballard collected a loose ball just beyond midfield and took the ball to the top of the penalty area. Ballard rifled his shot beyond the reach of the Kenyon goalkeeper to draw level at 1-1 in the 20th minute. The score would remain the same as the half concluded.
The Lords used their depth as a strength in the second half while maintaining fresh legs against the Pioneer defense. Kenyon struck again with a header goal on a quick cross in front of goal to make the score 2-1 in favor of the visitors in the 50th minute.
Transylvania surged again and came close to equalizing twice. Mitchell Crispin was through on goal but was denied by the goalkeeper while Alec Coomes hit the post from long range. Kenyon completed the scoring on a counterattack in the 70th minute for a 3-1 final.
After a nearly weeklong break, the Pioneers will continue their homestand in a matchup against the Bethany College Bison on Saturday, September 11th at Pat Deacon Stadium. The match is scheduled to begin at 12:00 noon.
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