The Virginia Wesleyan University men's soccer team (7-4-1, 1-3-0 ODAC) battled hard but fell 1-0 to Lynchburg (10-0-2, 4-0-0 ODAC) on Saturday evening at Shellenberger Field in Lynchburg, Va.
The Marlins opened the match with a solid defense, keeping the Hornets' attack in check through the first 45 minutes. Virginia Wesleyan generated a few early chances with three shots, including two on goal, but couldn't find the back of the net. Goalkeeper
Ben Haynes anchored the defense with key saves to send the teams into halftime scoreless.
Virginia Wesleyan continued to battle after the break, matching Lynchburg's pace. Despite a strong showing from Haynes and the Marlins' back line, Lynchburg managed to score at the 77th minute to take the lead. VWU had a late surge, earning corners and creating pressure in the attacking third, but couldn't find the equalizer before time expired.
Haynes finished with four saves, keeping the Marlins within striking distance throughout the contest.
Virginia Wesleyan returns to action on Wednesday, October 15, at 6:00 p.m., when the Marlins host Eastern Mennonite University in ODAC play at Foster Field at the Tassos Paphitis Soccer Complex in Virginia Beach.
