In honor of the first day of fall, the Transylvania boys’ soccer team hosted UC Clermont at Pat Deacon Stadium.
The first period was plagued with frustration for the Pioneers. Despite achieving a 15 to 1 shot advantage, the team failed to net a goal. The Pios were in a 0-0 tie at the half, but used the break to regroup.
In the second period, the Pioneers’ attack mentality remained, but their execution changed for the better. In the 75th minute, junior forward Alex Shkraba netted the contest’s first goal, courtesy of first-year midfielder Tyler Dobbs’s assist.
The Pios, taking up the when-it-rains-it-pours philosophy, would score two more goals in just the next 12 minutes. The first came in the the 80th minute from a free kick by junior Charlie Wend. The third and final goal, assisted by DJ Sanders, came from first-year forward Tyler Kenney. This was Kenney’s first goal in college play.
The game ended with a final score of 3-0, Pioneers.
The Pioneers won this game because of an offensive attack mindset and solid defense, which only allowed two shots the entire game. This was clear on the field and showed in the game statistics. The Pioneers dominated the contest in both time of possession and shots taken.
The contest witnessed solid goalkeeper play from both sides. Transylvania’s Drew Grisham picked up the shutout, while UC Clermont’s Tyler Austin secured eight saves and allowed just three goals, despite 31 shots being fired his way.
About 150 people attended the game, consistent with past games this season despite 59 degree weather and overcast skies. Also in attendance were 40 Anderson County High School soccer players who came by bus to see the game.
This was Transylvania’s first home win of the season, improving their record to 2-3-2. The Cougars of UC Clermont fell to 2-5.
The Pioneers will next travel to Anderson, Indiana, on Saturday September 29, to take on the Anderson University Ravens. The game will start at 3:00 PM.
