Williamsburg, Ky. – In a top-15 clash at the UC Soccer Complex, the #8 University of the Cumberlands Men's Soccer team battled to a 1-1 draw with #15 Georgia Gwinnett Wednesday evening. The Patriots leaned on a second-half equalizer by forward Samuel Dolobaipu and a resilient defensive effort to secure the result.
Cumberlands controlled much of the early tempo, forcing Georgia Gwinnett keeper Victor Darub into action in the sixth minute off a strike from Emil Skursch. Ryota Nakamura followed shortly after with another attempt, and Leandro Nico Romero Protto nearly broke through with a 22nd-minute header that tested the Grizzlies' back line. Despite UC's early pressure, the visitors struck first in the 29th minute as Ousmane Fall converted a build-up from Josefa Simao and Luka Colic to give GGC a 1-0 advantage. The Patriots responded with attempts from Anthony Carriel Jaramillo , Bruno Marques, and Bruno Garcia before halftime, but the Grizzlies carried the lead into the break.
UC came out of the locker room with renewed energy and pressure, particularly from set pieces and sustained possession. In the 65th minute, Dolobaipu slotted home his fifth goal of the season to draw Cumberlands level. The Patriots continued to push forward, with Ryoma Ichihara and Dolobaipu both generating looks in the final stretch, but the scoreboard remained locked at 1-1.
On the defensive end, goalkeeper Javiero Izquierdo Cuervo directed the back line and limited Georgia Gwinnett to just five total shots, only one of which was on target. UC's midfield absorbed heavy physical play from the Grizzlies, overcoming 19 fouls and multiple yellow cards while keeping composure in possession.
Cumberlands finished with a 9–5 advantage in shots, including a 4–1 edge in shots on goal. UC also tallied six corner kicks compared to GGC's three, while Darub made three saves to keep the visitors level.
With the draw, the Patriots move to 5-3-3 overall. Dolobaipu's equalizer ties Bruno Marques for a team high with five goals on the year.
Cumberlands returns home on Saturday, October 4, to host RV Union Commonwealth University (Ky.) at the UC Lacrosse/Soccer Complex. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
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