FRANKLIN SPRINGS, Ga. — Anderson University (1-0-1, 0-0-0) secured a 1-0 victory over Emmanuel (0-1-1, 0-0-0) on Sunday at the Stephen Lee Complex. The Trojans outshot the Lions 21 to 2, with the lone goal coming in the second half. This victory marked a significant milestone for Head Coach
Michael Zion, as he recorded his 104th win, making him the all-time leader in wins at Anderson.
"We deserved this win," said Zion. " We created a lot of chances throughout the game, and although it took us until late to break the deadlock, the team kept pushing and gave everything right until the end. It was a hard-fought performance, and I'm really pleased that we were able to get the goal and secure a deserved 1-0 victory."
AU started aggressively in the first period, creating several scoring opportunities. Will Thompson and
Luis Munoz each tested EU's goalkeeper Edouard Laberge with early shots, though both were saved. The Black and Gold maintained pressure with consistent corner kicks, but Laberge's effort kept the Lions level.
Despite Anderson's offensive efforts, including a shot by
Pol Elias in the 20th minute, the team was unable to convert its chances.
Jonas Zethofer and
Kenta Yagi also contributed shots, but neither were able to find the back of the net. The period concluded scoreless, with neither side able to break through.
The second period began with AU maintaining a steady offensive presence. Several attempts on goal were made by Munoz and Zethofer, but Emmanuel's goalkeeper Laberge managed to keep the net secure. Despite this, the persistent offensive pressure paid off in the 86th minute when
Kaiden Smith notched a goal, assisted by Nicolas Ortiz, breaking the deadlock.
Following the goal, the Black and Gold's defense, led by
Asher Risell between the posts, held firm against the Lions' attempts to equalize, with Risell making crucial saves. The game wrapped up with Anderson maintaining their one-goal lead, securing the victory.
The Trojans will host Montevallo on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 5 p.m. in Anderson, South Carolina.
