Willoughby-Williams scores first career goal in season opener
The Mars Hill men's soccer team (0-1) fell to defending National Champion and No. 1 ranked Charleston (1-0) Thursday afternoon in their 2021 season opener by a score of 5-1.
| Final | 1 | 2 | T |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston (W.V.) (1-0-0, 0-0-0) | 0 | 5 | 5 |
| Mars Hill (0-1-0, 0-0-0) | 0 | 1 | 1 |
MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill men's soccer team (0-1) fell to defending National Champion and No. 1 ranked Charleston (1-0) Thursday afternoon in their 2021 season opener by a score of 5-1.
The Lions held Charleston scoreless in the first half, including two massive blocks by Luke Manley and Rasmus Nielsen. Both teams recorded two shots on goal in the opening 45 minutes of play.
The Golden Eagles struck twice in 40 seconds in the second half with Sebastian Pavez netting his first of four goals on the afternoon in the 55th minute. Joakim Ostvold later struck taking a Ploutarchos Alonefti pass and tucking it inside the far post.
In the 62nd minute, Pavez scored his second of the contest, but the Lions answered back in the 71st minute. Sebastian Bertilsson slid the ball through two defenders and broke Kevonte Willoughby-Williams open for a one-on-one against the Charleston goalkeeper, Nicolai Gunderson. Willoughby-Williams placed the ball low, inside the far post.
In the final six minutes of play, Pavez scored his final two goals of the day with assists going to James Raptis and Lewis Redding.
Willoughby-Williams led the Lions with two shots on goal while Pavez converted on all four shot attempts. Gunderson made three stops for the win while Brennan Whalen stopped two shots on the afternoon.
The Lions return to the pitch on Sunday, September 5 when they host Converse. Kickoff is set for a 6 p.m. start.
Team Stats
Charleston (W.V.)
Mars Hill
| Game Statistics | Charleston (W.V.) | Mars Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Shots (on goal) | 17 (7) | 8 (4) |
| Saves | 3 | 2 |
| Fouls | 5 | 8 |
| Corner Kicks | 10 | 3 |
| Offsides | 1 | 0 |
