Williamsburg, KY – The #14 University of the Cumberlands men's soccer team fell 2-0 to #21 Olivet Nazarene Saturday night at the UC Lacrosse/Soccer Complex in the Patriots' home opener and first-ever meeting with the Tigers. With the loss, UC moves to 1-2-1 on the season.
Cumberlands generated a pair of early chances as Nico Romero had a shot blocked in the 6' before Vinicius Serafim sent an attempt high moments later. The Patriots continued to look for the breakthrough as Conor McVeigh put a shot on frame in the 23', forcing a save from the Olivet goalkeeper.
UC limited the Tigers to just one shot in the opening half while adding another chance in the closing minute as Gabriel Canineu fired wide left. The two sides went into halftime scoreless.
The Patriots continued to create opportunities after the break as Samuel Dolobaipu sent a shot wide in the 53'. UC then earned back-to-back corner kicks in the 57' and 59', with Javin Williams getting a header off following the first. Romero added another attempt in the 61' as the match remained scoreless.
Olivet began to create more pressure late in the second half, but Martin Gomez made consecutive saves in the 75' and 78' to preserve the scoreless draw. The Tigers broke through in the 79' to take a 1-0 advantage before adding another goal in the 88' to extend the lead to 2-0. Jesus Macaya had one final chance for UC in the closing minutes, but his shot sailed high as Olivet secured the win.
Cumberlands and Olivet each finished with eight shots, while the Tigers held a 4-1 edge in shots on goal. The Patriots earned three corner kicks compared to two for Olivet, while Gomez finished with two saves.
Cumberlands returns to the pitch Monday, September 7, when the Patriots host SCAD-Savannah at the UC Lacrosse/Soccer Complex. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
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