Lions Drop SAC Opener to Wingate

WINGATE, N.C. – The Lions men's soccer team lost their conference opener to Wingate by a score of 3-0 on Wednesday night at Pride Park. Mars Hill falls to 1-3 overall and 0-1 within the SAC, while the Bulldogs go to 3-0 overall and 1-0 within the conference.

The start of the contest was very slow as each team let small opportunities fall by the wayside. Wingate had a golden chance in the 16^th minute with a free kick from about 20 yards out. However, freshman netkeeper Kristofer Wennin came up with two huge saves on goal to preserve the scoreless tie.

The Bulldogs were finally able breakthrough in the 21^st minute after a cross into the box found the attacker's right boot and was placed ever-so-gently into the bottom right of the net. Just over a minute later Wingate added to that lead with a quick shot that went under the outstretched hands of Wennin, giving the home team a 2-0 lead.

Senior midfielder Amine Merdjett came off the bench for the Lions and was an instant spark for the Blue and Gold's offense. The best chance coming when Merdjett showed his excellence speed, racing past Bulldog defenders and posting a shot on goal. Wingate's goalkeeper knocked the ball away, but the rebound just squeaked by the left foot of Franck Lannaud, which would have been an easy blast into the back of the net.

Despite several scoring chances from Mars Hill, Wingate held onto their two-goal lead heading into the intermission.

Offense was at a premium in the second half with neither team able to gain a definitive advantage. Each goalie was able to push away every shot that was presented to them. However, Wingate was able to push across a third goal in the 83^rd minute as a chip from the right corner of the 18 found the back of the net.

That score held up as Wingate milked the clock the rest of the way to secure the victory. WU was able to dominate the offensive end throughout the match, collecting 20 shots and 13 corners, compared to five shots and one corner for the Lions. Wennin finished the match with six saves on the afternoon and Merdjett led the way with three shots.

Mars Hill will be back in action on Saturday, September 17 as they play host to Catawba. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. inside Meares Stadium.